McLaren's Pato O'Ward Expects Colton Herta in F1 by 2027

Pato O'Ward, McLaren's IndyCar star, has expressed his strong belief that Colton Herta will secure a Formula 1 seat by the 2027 season, stating he'd be "shocked" if it didn't happen. Herta, an accomplished nine-time IndyCar race winner, is making a significant career pivot, joining Cadillac as a development driver and transitioning to Formula 2 for 2026, viewing this as his most viable path to F1.

Why it matters:

This potential move represents a critical juncture for Herta and could fulfill Cadillac's ambition to field an American driver in F1. With Cadillac entering F1 in 2026 with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, Herta's development in F2 alongside his development role positions him perfectly as a future candidate. His success would also provide a significant boost for American talent breaking into the pinnacle of motorsport.

The Details:

• Herta's New Path: Colton Herta has joined Cadillac as a development driver, preparing for a full-time switch to Formula 2 in 2026. This move is seen by Herta himself as his "last potential route" into Formula 1.
• O'Ward's Endorsement: Pato O'Ward, who races for McLaren in IndyCar and recently had an FP1 appearance, firmly believes Herta's talent warrants an F1 spot. "He's very talented... I think I'd be shocked to not see him in an F1 [seat] in 2027," O'Ward told RACER.
• Strategic Timing: O'Ward suggests Herta wouldn't be making such a significant switch from IndyCar to F2 if an F1 opportunity wasn't a strong possibility for 2027, aligning with Cadillac's long-term plans.
• IndyCar Support: Despite departing after seven years and achieving runner-up in the 2024 drivers' championship, Herta carries the support of the entire IndyCar paddock. O'Ward emphasized, "He's going to be our IndyCar representation... We want him to make it to F1, and we want him to do well."
• Cadillac's F1 Entry: Cadillac will debut in F1 in 2026 with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, indicating a strategic long-term vision that could include an American driver like Herta.

What's next:

Herta's performance in Formula 2 during the 2026 season will be crucial in demonstrating his readiness for F1. His role as a development driver for Cadillac also provides an invaluable opportunity to integrate into the team's structure and prove his capabilities to F1 decision-makers. The next few years will determine if Herta can successfully bridge the gap from IndyCar to Formula 1.