Cadillac to Judge Colton Herta on F1 Work, Not F2 Results

Cadillac will evaluate Colton Herta's Formula 1 readiness based on his simulator and practice work rather than Formula 2 results, according to TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss. The IndyCar convert joined the American outfit as a test driver, combining F1 simulator sessions with an F2 program designed primarily for learning tracks and tires.

Why it matters:

The team's approach breaks from the conventional reliance on feeder series results, treating Herta's F1-specific output and IndyCar pedigree as the true benchmarks. As Cadillac builds toward its grid debut, this philosophy underscores a belief that direct preparation in Grand Prix machinery matters more than midfield F2 form.

The details:

• Herta is embedded in Cadillac's F1 simulator and garage while racing for Hitech in F2, where results have been consistently midfield.
• Towriss downplayed the F2 struggles, noting they stem partly from Hitech's current level and that the series is serving its purpose as a learning tool.
• Herta completed his first practice appearance at Barcelona and is slated to run in Hungary, with two further FP1 sessions scheduled for 2026.
• Towriss confirmed Herta executed his program as requested in Spain, with the team focused on accumulating F1-specific evidence of his readiness.

What's next:

Herta will return to the cockpit for first practice in Hungary as Cadillac continues building his body of work. The program is expected to progress toward a full race seat for the team's F1 debut, with his future determined by F1 performance rather than F2 standings.