<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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 \u2013 an engagement that is now opening the door for him to the premier class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His entry into Formula 2 was solid \u2013 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A background element is also a Formula 1 regulation: each team must complete several practice sessions with junior drivers per season \u2013 an opportunity that Cadillac is now deliberately utilizing.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"