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3h ago

Colton Herta Becomes Cadillac F1 Test Driver for 2026 as Will Power Joins Andretti

The move positions the American to work toward FIA superlicence eligibility.

Jul 27, 2025; Salinas, California, USA; Andretti Autosport driver Colton Herta (26) during the Monterey Grand Prix at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images/ File Photo
Driver Sergio Perez (C) addresses the media after announcing his return to Formula 1 at Teatro Telcel on August 27, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico. Sergio "Checo" Perez will join Cadillac Formula 1 Team in 2026 as one of the drivers alongside Valtteri Botas. Perez has raced for 14 seasons as part of Sauber, Force India, Racing Point and Red Bull teams.
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Overview

  • Cadillac confirmed Herta as its first test and reserve driver for the team’s 2026 Formula 1 debut and said details of his racing program will follow.
  • Herta will step away from IndyCar next season, and Andretti Global named two‑time series champion Will Power to take over the No. 26 Honda in 2026 after his departure from Team Penske.
  • Herta remains short of the 40 points required for an FIA superlicence, with reporting indicating he is about five points shy and can add points via clean FP1 outings.
  • Coverage and team signals point to a possible return to European competition, most likely Formula 2, to help complete his licence requirements, though no 2026 race plan has been announced.
  • Cadillac has already locked in experienced racers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez for its 2026 lineup, underscoring a veteran-first launch strategy while integrating an American prospect through testing.