Source: Official Team Post via X
Cadillac Eyeing Frederik Vesti for Potential Bottas Replacement
Cadillac is considering Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti as a potential replacement for Valtteri Bottas. Danish driver Vesti joins American Colton Herta on the shortlist for the seat.
Valtteri Bottas might need to keep a close eye on his seat at Cadillac, as another name has entered the race for his potential replacement. Frederik Vesti, Mercedes' reserve driver, is being considered for the spot should Cadillac decide to part ways with Bottas. The Finnish driver's position has become more precarious than it appeared earlier this season, and Vesti has emerged as a new contender during the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend.
**Vesti's Advantages** Danish driver Frederik Vesti is not new to Cadillac's radar. Having raced with Whelen Cadillac Racing in IMSA over the past two seasons, Vesti has bagged three wins and three podium finishes. His technical feedback and development skills have impressed Mercedes, particularly through his work on the Mercedes W17 this year. Vesti is also qualified for a Super Licence, thanks to his Formula 2 runner-up finish in 2023 and his FP1 appearances for Mercedes.
**The Colton Herta Factor** While Vesti is a strong candidate, American driver Colton Herta is also in the running for the Cadillac seat. Herta's long-standing relationship with General Motors and Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss makes him a leading contender. Having raced for Andretti Global in IndyCar, Herta has proven his marketability and skill, although his Formula 2 campaign hasn't been particularly stellar.
Herta recently secured the necessary 40 Super Licence points after participating in FP1 sessions, an achievement he was unable to claim three years ago when Red Bull showed interest in him. Despite a lackluster F2 performance, Herta's practice sessions have kept him in the spotlight as a potential Bottas replacement.
**Cadillac's Dilemma** Currently, Bottas remains the preferred choice within the team, including from teammate Sergio Perez. However, General Motors seems keen on giving Herta a chance. If Herta is not selected, Vesti appears to be next in line, with Mercedes supporting his bid for the seat.
Cadillac has also had exploratory talks with F2 driver Alex Dunne, but these have not progressed, largely due to the team's apparent preference for Herta. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson seems intent on staying with Red Bull, leaving Vesti as a viable option for Cadillac.
**Cadillac's Strategy** Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Cadillac team boss Marcin Budkowski emphasized the importance of having an American driver in the lineup. "It's an American team; it races under an American flag," he said, though he sidestepped questions about Herta's readiness for a full-time seat. Budkowski highlighted Sergio Perez's performance instead, adding that the team is building a strong American identity.
Budkowski mentioned that the plan for the season was to integrate Herta into the team, with him participating in simulator development and multiple FP1 sessions. "We might do more FP1s with him to give him more experience," Budkowski noted.
In this ongoing game of musical chairs, Cadillac faces a tough decision. Whether they opt for Herta's American appeal or Vesti's technical prowess remains to be seen, but either choice will significantly impact the team's direction in the coming seasons.