Cadillac Boss Talks Colton Herta’s F1 Ambitions on ‘F1 Beyond The Grid’ Podcast
Colton Herta’s move to join Cadillac as their test and development driver for their 2026 Formula 1 debut is one of the most talked-about subjects in the paddock. The American IndyCar star, who has eight IndyCar wins under his belt, is preparing for a bold shift to European racing by contesting the 2026 Formula 2 season. This strategic move aims to secure the FIA Super Licence points required to race in F1 as early as 2027.
Speaking on the ‘F1 Beyond The Grid’ podcast, Cadillac Formula 1 Team CEO Dan Towriss acknowledged the risk involved in Herta’s decision but expressed full confidence in the young driver. “Colton is taking a huge risk stepping from IndyCar into F2, but it’s a crucial step toward his goal of racing in Formula 1,” Towriss said. “He’s got incredible talent, grit, and the backing of not only Cadillac but also Andretti and TWG Motorsport. We believe he has what it takes to be part of our future.”
Towriss went on to highlight how Cadillac is committed to nurturing American talent, with Herta becoming an essential piece of their long-term strategy. The team’s driver lineup for 2026 includes experienced racers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, but Herta’s presence underscores their focus on building for the future as well as making an immediate impact.
The move is already receiving praise from peers in the F1 community. McLaren’s Lando Norris has said that Herta arguably deserves an F1 seat now, calling his IndyCar performance superior to many young European drivers currently racing in F2. US Grand Prix promoter Bobby Epstein believes that having an American driver like Herta in F1 would be a game changer for the sport’s popularity in the States.
As Cadillac prepares to enter the sport fully in 2026, establishing its own factory and eventually developing a proprietary power unit, Herta’s progress in F2 will be closely watched by fans and teams alike. The 25-year-old driver’s gamble on Europe demonstrates his hunger and resilience to finally make the long-awaited leap into Formula 1.
