Colton Herta to Debut in FP1 with Cadillac at Barcelona in 2026

Colton Herta, the 26-year-old American racer, is gearing up for his first on-track practice sessions with Cadillac's upcoming Formula 1 team. As part of his dual role combining a rookie Formula 2 campaign with testing duties for the new F1 outfit, Herta will take part in four FP1 sessions throughout the 2026 season.

Herta's debut will occur at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, where he will step in for regular drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. This marks a significant step in his journey toward a full-time F1 seat, following his successful stint in the NTT IndyCar Series and a points-scoring debut in F2 with Hitech in Australia last month.

"I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team car for the first time," said Herta. "I am 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 [Sergio] and Valtteri as much as possible."

Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac’s F1 Team Principal, praised Herta's talent: "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. 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."

Dan Towriss, Cadillac’s F1 CEO, echoed this sentiment: "Colton has really earned this opportunity. 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."

Herta remains active in F2, with upcoming races at the Miami Grand Prix weekend and the Canadian round, both now including the junior series on the schedule.