Source: Official Team Post via X
Cadillac's Crucial Decision: Colton Herta's F1 Future Hangs in the Balance
Colton Herta is on the brink of earning his super licence, a key step towards securing a Formula 1 seat with Cadillac. As his performance in F2 wavers, Cadillac must decide whether Herta will be part of their F1 plans in 2027.
Colton Herta is inching closer to his dream of racing in Formula 1. As Cadillac's test and development driver, the 26-year-old American is keen to make the leap from F2 to F1, but he's facing a critical moment in his career. Currently, Herta is just one point away from earning his FIA super licence, a necessary credential for any F1 driver.
Cadillac hasn't publicly detailed the contracts of their current drivers, Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. However, it's believed Perez has a two-year deal with an option for a third, while Bottas is signed only through 2026 with an option for an additional year. Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Cadillac indicated that Herta's FP1 run at the Circuit of the Americas was his last for the year. Yet, Herta remains optimistic that this could change, especially given team principal Marcin Budkowski's openness to a driver shake-up in 2027.
"I hope so," Herta commented on the possibility of another FP1 outing. "We’re still figuring some stuff out with the team, and I think they’ll have a better idea soon."
Herta's current position in F2 is less than stellar, sitting 19th after a lackluster season. This performance isn't scoring him any points towards his super licence, which could compel him to stay in F2 for another year—something he’s not keen on. Despite this, Herta has slightly softened his stance, saying, "We’ll see. My goal is still to be in Formula 1."
The clock is ticking for Herta to earn his super licence this year, especially as he's set to lose 30 points from his licence at the end of 2026, points he earned as a runner-up in IndyCar. The most straightforward way to secure the final point he needs is another FP1 session. Mexico City's Grand Prix presents the next best opportunity for Herta to complete the required 100km of running—roughly 24 laps.
If Mexico doesn’t pan out, Brazil offers another chance, although the unpredictable nature of the Las Vegas race and the calendar beyond adds a layer of uncertainty. Despite the potential for Herta to join Cadillac in 2027, Bottas remains the favored choice for the team, given his stability and experience.
As the decision looms, Cadillac faces the challenge of balancing future potential with current reliability. The next few months will be crucial for both Herta and Cadillac as they navigate the complex world of F1 driver dynamics.