Cadillac opens another door to F1 for Colton Herta – With his global racing campaign now underway in Formula 2, Colton Herta is getting closer to a long-awaited opportunity in Formula 1. The American began his 2026 season with Hitech-TGR after productive post-season testing in Abu Dhabi last December, and his goal is clear: to race in Formula 1.
This ambition could align perfectly with the arrival of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, who are joining the grid as the eleventh F1 team. For Herta, Cadillac represents more than just a potential employer; it is a rare bridge between American single-seater success and the pinnacle of global motorsport. But there’s a significant hurdle standing between Herta and a full-time Formula 1 seat: Super Licence points, the catch that could derail the entire enterprise for the American, and a requirement for all F1 drivers to achieve before taking part in a Grand Prix.
Barcelona test shows steady progress
During the pre-season test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 17–19 February, Herta began laying the groundwork for his Super Licence push.
The opening day was steady rather than spectacular; he finished 15th as he adjusted to the intricacies of an F2 car, heavier, more complex, and far more tyre-sensitive than the machinery he had previously mastered in the United States. However, he adapted quickly. He climbed to eighth place on the second day and ultimately finished the test in sixth place overall.
A minor setback came in the form of a spin on the second day, but such moments are to be expected in Formula 2, where drivers are constantly pushing the limits of the Pirelli tyres. Importantly, Herta responded well, demonstrating composure and providing technical feedback that impressed those in the paddock.
He has the raw speed, but it is consistency over a full championship that will determine whether this becomes more than just a learning season.
READ MORE – 8th Title Chances? Lewis Hamilton Stunned by 2026 F1 Cars
Cadillac’s merit-based stance
From the outset, Cadillac’s leadership has stressed that nationality alone will not dictate driver selection. As early as May 2025, team principal Graeme Lowdon made clear that seats would be awarded ‘on merit’.
This approach was evident in the team’s initial driver selection, prioritising the experience of Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas for their debut campaign. Both drivers have a proven track record of success and invaluable knowledge of Formula 1’s technical and operational demands, providing a solid foundation for a brand-new entrant.
However, Cadillac has also invested in Herta as a development and test driver. Lowdon has spoken positively about the American’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone and commit to the European single-seater ladder.
“He’s doing really well,” Lowdon explained in Bahrain. “I’m glad he took on the challenge. For me, that’s what a real racing driver would do.”
The immediate target is a top-ten finish
The path forward is clearly defined. To strengthen his case for an F1 race seat, Herta must secure a top-10 finish in the Formula 2 championship.
Dan Towriss, the managing director of TWG Motorsport, Cadillac’s parent organisation, has openly set this as the target. It’s not just about points, but also about development: learning unfamiliar circuits, mastering tyre management and adapting to European racing culture.
A top-eight finish would comfortably secure the Super Licence points required for a full-time F1 campaign. A tenth-place result would leave Herta slightly short, meaning he would need to participate in additional Free Practice sessions to bridge the gap.
This makes every qualifying session and sprint race in F2 critical. Unlike some junior drivers backed by established F1 academies, Herta’s path is heavily dependent on performance rather than politics.
READ MORE – “It could be chaotic”: Big change in F1, he agrees with Verstappen
Limited but valuable F1 exposure
Despite his official role with Cadillac, Herta’s on-track Formula 1 experience will initially be limited. Without the required Super Licence points, he cannot act as a reserve driver or participate in extensive Testing of Previous Cars (TPC).
Cadillac faces an additional complication in that, as a new team, it does not possess older F1 machinery eligible for TPC programmes. This restricts private testing opportunities compared to more established teams.
The primary opportunity will come during the mandatory rookie Free Practice 1 sessions. Each F1 team must field a rookie driver at four race weekends, and Cadillac can use these sessions to give Herta valuable driving experience.
“We can put him behind the wheel during FP1 sessions,” Lowdon confirmed. “We can expose him to how engineering works, how race weekends unfold, everything else. But we can’t run him extensively.”
While it may not be the ideal preparation, even a handful of FP1 outings would allow Herta to experience the increased downforce, braking performance and operational intensity that define Formula 1.
A demanding dual programme
Adding further complexity is Herta’s busy racing calendar. As well as competing in Formula 2, he is also racing in IMSA, balancing two demanding championships across continents.
The schedule leaves little margin for error or additional preparation time. However, this also highlights Cadillac’s belief in his versatility and work ethic.
Ultimately, the equation is simple: perform well in Formula 2, earn the required Super Licence points and demonstrate your readiness for the spotlight of Formula 1.
While Cadillac prioritised experience for its launch phase, the door remains open. If Herta can demonstrate consistent performance and continued technical growth, those FP1 sessions could lead to a full-time Formula 1 seat with Cadillac.
MORE F1 NEWS – Insider reveals: This is the current balance of power in F1
NEXT ARTICLE – Lewis Hamilton & Charles Leclerc Have a Massive Advantage in 2026?
Pre-season testing rarely provides definitive answers, but it can sometimes reveal structural changes. In Bahrain this week, during preparations for the 2026 campaign, Ferrari did not just look competitive; it looked fundamentally different, even to the previous week of testing. But it isn’t just the peculiar rear wing 180 rotating drag reduction, or the odd gearbox wings with their swept back drive shafts that have the paddock talking this evening.
Most striking was the visual evidence from practice grid starts today that seem to suggest Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc may hold one of the most decisive advantages of the new regulatory era.
During multiple launch simulations at the Bahrain International Circuit, Ferrari-powered cars surged forward with striking immediacy. Hamilton, who was lined up several rows back in one evening simulation, sped through the pack before the first braking zone.
Even accounting for empty grid slots and varied engine modes, the difference in initial acceleration was clear. Engineers and team personnel watching trackside were struck by how cleanly and predictably the red cars delivered power compared to rivals that appeared momentarily hesitant.
This was not an isolated incident. The Ferrari-powered Haas of Esteban Ocon also demonstrated strong and consistent launches. What stood out was consistency. While some competitors struggled to find the right engine rev window or appeared to balance turbo preparation with hybrid deployment awkwardly, Ferrari’s system appeared composed and responsive…CONTINUE READING THIS STORY
Craig.J. Alderson is Senior Editor at TJ13, where Craig oversees newsroom operations and coordinates editorial output across the site. With a background in online sports reporting and motorsport magazine editing, he plays a key role in maintaining consistency, speed, and accuracy in TJ13’s coverage.
During race weekends, Craig acts as desk lead, directing contributors, prioritising breaking stories, and ensuring timely publication across a fast-moving news cycle.
Craig’s work focuses heavily on real-time developments in the paddock, including team updates, regulatory decisions, and emerging controversies. This role requires a detailed understanding of Formula 1’s operational flow, from practice sessions through to race-day strategy and post-race fallout.
With experience managing editorial teams, Craig ensures that TJ13 delivers structured, reliable coverage while maintaining the site’s distinctive voice.
Craig has a particular interest in how information moves within the paddock environment, and how rapidly developing stories can be accurately translated into clear, accessible reporting for readers.
