Cadillac hands Herta four FP1 sessions in 2026

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Cadillac has confirmed that test driver Colton Herta will step into its F1 car for four Free Practice 1 sessions across the 2026 season, marking a major step forward in both his development and the US outfit’s growing presence on the grid.

The 26-year-old Californian – who currently competes with Hitech in the FIA F2 Championship –will make his FP1 debut at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in June, kicking off a programme that will see him embedded in race weekends and working closely with the team’s race drivers as the season unfolds.

After a stellar career in the NTT IndyCar Series and a points-scoring debut in F2 in Melbourne, Herta is ready to show the F1 paddock what he’s made of.

These four sessions are more than just a joyride; they are a critical part of Cadillac's mission to develop American talent at the pinnacle of motorsport.

“I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team car for the first time,” said Herta. “I'm looking forward to working closely with the team in a full Grand Prix environment and am fully focused on learning from every appearance.

“I hope I can contribute to the overall race weekend and help the team, Checo and Valtteri as much as possible.”

Building an American powerhouse

The decision to give Herta the keys for all four of the team’s mandated young driver sessions speaks volumes about the confidence Cadillac has in his abilities.

Team Principal Graeme Lowdon was quick to praise Herta’s seamless transition across different racing disciplines and his potential to help regular drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.

“Colton is a top talent, which he has not only proved by building an impressive resume in the NTT IndyCar Series before joining us, but also with a strong start to his Formula 2 season," noted Lowdon.

"Completing all four of our young driver FP1 sessions is a natural next step in his Test Driver role, and I look forward to seeing what he can bring in terms of development and focus.”

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Supporting this vision, Dan Towriss, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1 Team Holdings, emphasized the educational aspect of the program.

“Colton has really earned this opportunity,” Towriss said. “These sessions are a valuable opportunity for him to integrate with the team, develop his skills behind the wheel and off the track, and learn about a Grand Prix weekend from the inside.”

Ahead of his F1 debut, Herta will compete in the Formula 2 rounds that will take place during the Miami Grand Prix weekend, offering yet another high-profile stage for the American driver to showcase his progress.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.