Colton Herta's next career step is official: The American talent will get behind the wheel for the first time during a Formula 1 weekend. As the team confirmed, the 26-year-old will compete at the Spanish Grand Prix.
The plan is for Herta to compete in the first practice session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. In addition, three more appearances in free practice sessions are planned during the season, including an appearance at the team's home race in Miami.
Herta's path towards Formula 1 has been unusual lately: To increase his chances, he left the IndyCar Series and moved to Formula 2. At the same time, he took on a role as a test and reserve driver for Cadillac – an engagement that is now opening the door for him to the premier class.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon described the deployment as a logical development: Herta had already proven his potential in the USA and in the junior class. His previous performances and focus, in particular, would make him an exciting candidate for the team.
Herta himself is also looking forward to his first run in the Formula 1 car. The Californian emphasizes that he wants to use the opportunity to gain as much experience as possible in the racing environment and to continue developing.
Herta had already made a name for himself early on in the USA: He celebrated his first victory at the age of 18. In the IndyCar overall standings, he finished third in 2020 and second in 2024.
His entry into Formula 2 was solid – at the season opener in Melbourne, he drove straight into the top ten. In the long term, he is considered a candidate for a regular Formula 1 cockpit, possibly as early as the coming years.
A background element is also a Formula 1 regulation: each team must complete several practice sessions with junior drivers per season – an opportunity that Cadillac is now deliberately utilizing.