Colton Herta has officially been named the test driver for Cadillac's new Formula 1 team, marking an important milestone for both the driver and the American team. This announcement, made on Wednesday, signifies Herta's transition from IndyCar to the global arena of Formula 1. This marks the first time an American driver will take part in the newly formed Cadillac program.
The decision to appoint Herta had been in the air for weeks prior, although both Herta and Dan Towriss, team co-owner, chose not to disclose details during that time. "I'm incredibly excited to be joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team as a test driver," said Herta. "This is a dream opportunity, and one I've been working towards for a long time. To be part of Cadillac F1's entry at such a pivotal time is something I couldn't pass up."
Initially, the Cadillac F1 program was a vision set forth by Michael Andretti, aimed at establishing a fully American team centered around Herta, who has showcased impressive skills in racing. However, Herta's inability to secure a super license necessary for F1 participation led the team to confirm seasoned drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for its 2026 launch. This new role for Herta comes with the expectation of him working to earn that crucial super license.
Herta will not be competing in IndyCar during the 2026 season, and future racing plans for the 25-year-old are still under discussion. As he transitions to this pivotal role, reports suggest that Cadillac is exploring options for Herta to secure a full-time seat in Formula 2, which is a vital stepping stone to F1.
Herta, who has a rich racing history, shared his aspirations, highlighting, "My dream has always been to race in Formula 1, and I see this move as a huge step towards that goal. For now, my focus is on giving everything I can to Cadillac F1, helping build a competitive team."
This new position also signifies a return to European circuit racing for Herta, whose lineage includes his father, Bryan Herta, a former IndyCar driver. Colton began his European career in 2015, where he notched four victories and multiple podium finishes while competing in the Euroformula Open Championship, along with achieving success in British F3, including a win at Brands Hatch.
Since moving to America in 2017, Herta has built a remarkable career in IndyCar, accumulating nine wins and gaining recognition as the youngest driver to win an IndyCar Series race in 2019, just before he turned 19. Additionally, he has earned victories in the IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship, including a class win at the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the overall title at the 12 Hours of Sebring.
Cadillac's team principal, Graeme Lowdon, expressed enthusiasm about Herta's new role, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Colton Herta as a Test Driver. Colton is an exceptionally talented racer with proven speed, race craft, and maturity well beyond his years. His experience in top-level American motorsport as part of the TWG Motorsport family makes him an ideal fit for this role."
Lowdon further articulated the cultural significance of this appointment, remarking, "Having an American driver join an American Formula 1 team is a hugely significant moment, not only for our team, but for American motorsport as a whole. Colton represents the passion, ambition, and competitive spirit that define the Cadillac Formula 1 team, and we are proud to have him carry the American flag with us on the world stage."
As Cadillac gears up for its F1 debut in 2026, Herta's involvement could signify a transformative period not only for his career but also a momentous chapter for American motorsport on a global scale.