Formula 1 just got a lot more interesting for American fans because IndyCar star Colton Herta has officially signed on as a test driver for the brand-new Cadillac F1 team gearing up for its debut in the 2026 season. This is huge news for motorsport lovers on both sides of the Atlantic and a thrilling step for Herta himself, whose dream has always been to race in Formula 1.
Colton Herta: Already A Hero
At just 25 years old, Colton Herta is already a hero in American open-wheel racing with nine IndyCar wins under his belt and a reputation for fierce competitiveness and raw talent. Now, he’s taking a bold leap from the US racing scene to the global stage, stepping into a role that, while it might not put him behind the wheel on race day just yet, puts him right at the heart of Cadillac’s ambitious F1 project. His main mission? Helping build a competitive team that’s ready to battle it out with the big guns next year.
Chasing F1 Since Forever
This is not just any test driver gig. For Herta, this is a dream catch, the kind he’s been chasing since bursting onto the racing scene. Back in 2022, he had a stint as a development driver with McLaren, and there was buzz about him potentially joining Red Bull’s junior outfit AlphaTauri in 2023.
But the FIA superlicence points needed to compete in Formula 1 have been a sticking point; Colton Herta came up just short despite solid results in IndyCar. Now, by joining Cadillac as a test driver, and with plans to race in Formula 2 next season, he’s strategically positioning himself to tick off those crucial superlicence points.
Colton Herta On The Move
Colton Herta shared his excitement on the announcement and 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. For now, my focus is on giving everything I can to Cadillac F1, helping build a competitive team.”
Joining Cadillac as a test driver is a statement: Herta is here to stay and to fight for a future race seat in F1. It also means American fans have a new favourite to watch closely as the 2026 season approaches. With experienced F1 drivers Sergio “Checo” Perez and Valtteri Bottas already signed for Cadillac’s inaugural campaign, Herta brings fresh energy and potential, making the American team one to watch.
So buckle up, Colton Herta is ready to take his shot at Formula 1 stardom, and the road ahead promises to be thrilling.
Also read: Who Congratulated Sergio Perez First After Cadillac Announcement
