Cadillac F1 names Californian Colton Herta test driver as he targets Formula 1 entry
Published on Sep 05, 2025 at 7:00 AM (UTC+4)
by Callum Tokody
Last updated on Sep 05, 2025 at 7:55 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
Cadillac F1 has confirmed Colton Herta as its Formula 1 test driver, giving the American his first formal role inside the championship.
Herta, 25, leaves his IndyCar seat at Andretti Global after years of speculation about an F1 switch.
He will combine simulator work for Cadillac F1 with a full Formula 2 campaign to secure the final points for an FIA Super License.
The move puts him in Europe for 2026 and sets up a pivotal season that could decide his Formula 1 future.
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Herta joins Cadillac F1
Colton Herta enters Cadillac F1’s program as both a test driver and a competitor in Formula 1.
The team confirmed he will work on development duties while also racing in Europe to meet licensing requirements.
A top-three finish in Formula 2 would guarantee the Super License, though his existing IndyCar record already provides a base of points.
Cadillac F1 has Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas signed for its first season.
Both will be 36 when the team begins racing, which creates the possibility of an opening for Herta in the near future.
His role gives the team a driver with current race mileage and a clear route to a full-time seat if circumstances change.
Formula 1 opportunity
Herta’s departure from IndyCar has been covered quickly, with Andretti Global moving to sign Will Power as his replacement.
The change affects both championships, since Herta is one of the most high-profile Americans to pursue a Formula 1 career.
Interest in Herta from Formula 1 teams dates back several years.
Red Bull attempted to bring him into its AlphaTauri team in 2021, but the FIA denied an exemption request that would have allowed him to compete.
Cadillac F1 now provides him with a direct path, as long as he produces results in Formula 2.
The appointment gives Cadillac F1 an American driver in its structure and places Colton Herta in position to move closer to Formula 1.
His 2026 season will decide whether this test driver role develops into a full-time seat.
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Callum Tokody is a content writer at Supercar Blondie, where he covers the latest in the automotive world with a focus on design and performance. Callum has a background in automotive journalism and has contributed to a range of publications in Australia and the UK. Outside of work, he’s a design enthusiast with a soft spot for anything with a V8 and a good story.
