Source: Official Team Post via X
Perez Weighs In on Herta's Potential Cadillac F1 Role Amid Bottas Speculation
Sergio Perez praises Colton Herta's contributions to Cadillac F1 amid rumors of Valtteri Bottas' uncertain future. Herta's increasing involvement may position him as a contender for a 2027 race seat.
Colton Herta is making waves at Cadillac F1, according to Sergio Perez, who notes the American driver's growing speed and feedback contributions as he spends more time in the simulator and car. With Valtteri Bottas' future with the team under scrutiny, Herta's name has been floated as a possible replacement for the 2027 season.
Perez recently renewed his contract with Cadillac F1, securing his presence until at least 2030. However, the fate of the second seat, currently occupied by Bottas, remains undecided. Insiders suggest that while Bottas is still favored by Cadillac, Herta is increasingly seen as a potential candidate. General Motors reportedly supports promoting Herta, who is currently a Cadillac test driver, into a full-time F1 role.
Adding to the intrigue, Herta will get an additional FP1 session in Mexico. Completing 100 kilometers in this session would earn him the final point needed for his FIA Super Licence, a crucial step for anyone aiming to compete in Formula 1. Despite facing challenges since his move to Formula 2 in 2026, Herta has expressed that F1 machinery is more rewarding compared to his IndyCar experience.
When asked about Herta's performance and the possibility of having him as a teammate in 2027, Perez had positive remarks: "He is doing a good job. He is bringing good feedback to the team, good information, which is all what we need from him." Perez acknowledges the difficulty of showcasing speed in FP1 sessions but believes Herta's increased involvement is revealing his potential.
Ultimately, Perez stated the decision of who will occupy the second seat lies with team principal Marcin Budkowski. "I’m also working really well with Valtteri. I think he’s been very unfortunate in a few races. I think in Austin he showed very strong pace," Perez added, highlighting the complexity of the decision.
Perez clarified he will not be involved in the selection process for his 2027 teammate, emphasizing that it’s a decision for Budkowski, who will evaluate all the data and information to determine the best path forward for the team. "We are in a period where we need to evolve extremely quickly. The next three, four months of the team are really, really crucial in our preparation," Perez concluded.