Since his IndyCar debut at age 18 with Harding Steinbrenner Racing, Colton Herta has secured nine wins, 11 poles, and 25 podiums with Andretti Global. His breakout moment came in 2019 when he became the youngest-ever IndyCar race winner at the Circuit of the Americas, aged 18 years and 359 days. His recent performances, including a victory at the 2025 Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey, have reportedly further solidified his reputation as a driver ready for the global stage and has also drawn comparison with many American F1 greats like Alexander Rossi and Scott Speed.
In a significant step toward realizing his Formula 1 ambitions, IndyCar driver Colton Herta has been appointed as the test driver for the newly formed Cadillac Formula 1 team, set to join the grid in 2026. The 25-year-old American, who has claimed nine victories in the IndyCar Series since his debut in 2019, reportedly described the role as a “dream opportunity” and a pivotal moment in his career. “My dream has always been to race in Formula 1. For now, my focus is on giving everything I can to Cadillac F1,” Herta reportedly said, expressing excitement about the opportunity. Herta’s appointment marks a major milestone for both the driver and Cadillac, as the American manufacturer prepares to become the 11th team in F1, reportedly partnering with Andretti Global to bring a U.S.-based outfit to the sport.
Cadillac is reportedly yet to confirm Colton Herta’s 2026 racing program
Reports claim that, while Cadillac has yet to confirm Colton Herta’s 2026 racing program, this move positions him as a leading candidate for a full-time race seat, bringing an American driver closer to the F1 grid than at any point in recent years. Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1, backed by General Motors and Andretti Global, represents a landmark moment for American motorsport. The team, approved by the FIA in 2024, will join the grid in 2026 under the new Concorde Agreement, reportedly aiming to capitalize on F1’s growing popularity in the United States, fueled by races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. Colton Herta’s appointment comes at a time when American representation in F1 is scarce.
The last U.S. driver to compete in a Grand Prix was Alexander Rossi in 2015, and no American has scored points since Scott Speed in 2006. Herta’s IndyCar pedigree, combined with his youth and hunger, makes him an ideal candidate to break this drought. As test driver, Herta will play a critical role in developing Cadillac’s 2026 car, it is said that the car will initially use Ferrari power units before transitioning to General Motors’ in-house engines in 2027. His responsibilities will include simulator work, on-track testing, and providing feedback to engineers as the team builds its infrastructure.
