Ralf Schumacher Questions Colton Herta's Future in F1
Ralf Schumacher has cast doubt on Colton Herta's suitability for a Formula 1 seat, suggesting Cadillac's FP1 sessions with the American are futile. With Herta struggling in Formula 2, Schumacher believes other candidates, like Leonardo Fornaroli, are more deserving.
Cadillac's test driver, Colton Herta, is at the center of a debate about his prospects in Formula 1. Ralf Schumacher, a six-time grand prix winner, has not held back in his criticism, suggesting that Herta's participation in extra FP1 sessions is merely 'burning fuel.' Schumacher supports Cadillac's ambition to feature American drivers but insists Herta is not the right fit, especially as Valtteri Bottas' future with the team is under consideration.
Herta, who recently secured the final point for his FIA Super Licence after his sixth FP1 outing at the Brazilian Grand Prix, is technically eligible for a 2027 F1 seat. Nevertheless, Schumacher remains unconvinced. Herta's move from IndyCar to Formula 2 in 2026 has not been smooth; he currently languishes in 19th place in the standings as the season nears its end.
When asked about Herta's potential for a Cadillac seat, Schumacher bluntly remarked to Sky Germany that it would only happen 'if Easter and Christmas fell on the same day.' He referenced Franz Tost's sentiment that Herta is 'just burning fuel' and suggested that the team should consider younger, more promising drivers instead. Highlighting Herta's poor performance in Formula 2, Schumacher stated, 'He doesn’t deserve it at all.'
Schumacher also proposed an alternative to Herta if Cadillac decides to move on from Bottas. He pointed to McLaren reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli, who has clinched back-to-back Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles yet still awaits an F1 opportunity. Schumacher described Fornaroli as 'an absolutely top-class driver' deserving of a chance.
For now, half of Cadillac's roster is secure, with Sergio Perez signing a contract to stay with the team for three more seasons. Perez, who reportedly maintains a good relationship with Herta, has emphasized that experience is crucial in the early stages of Cadillac's F1 journey—a quality both he and Bottas bring in spades. Between them, Perez and Bottas have 16 race wins, with Bottas delivering Cadillac's best result to date by finishing 13th in China.