Colton Herta Secures Dream F1 Test Driver Role with Cadillac

Colton Herta Joins Cadillac F1 as Test Driver, Targeting Future Race Seat

Why it matters: Colton Herta, a prominent American talent, has been confirmed as a test driver for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team. This move is a significant step towards his long-held dream of competing in Formula 1 and aligns with Cadillac's stated goal of bringing an American driver to its F1 program, potentially as early as 2027. It also marks a pivotal moment for American motorsport, with a top American driver joining an American-affiliated F1 outfit.

The big picture:

• Herta joins Cadillac F1 from the Andretti Global IndyCar team, where he achieved nine race wins, showcasing his proven talent and speed.
• Both the Cadillac F1 Team and Andretti Global are owned by TWG Motorsports, facilitating this strategic transition.
• Cadillac has previously expressed a strong desire to feature an American driver in its F1 lineup.
• Herta will contribute to the team alongside confirmed drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, focusing on development and providing crucial insights as Cadillac builds its F1 presence.

What Herta said: "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. My dream has always been to race in Formula 1, and I see this move as a huge step towards that goal."

Team perspective: Team Principal Graeme Lowdon welcomed Herta, stating, "Colton is an exceptionally talented racer with proven speed, race craft, and maturity well beyond his years. 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."

What's next: Herta's additional racing programs are expected to be announced shortly, with strong indications that he will compete in the FIA Formula 2 Championship to further prepare himself for the demands of the European-centric F1 circuit.