At the beginning of the week, we learned this incredible news: Formula 1 will welcome a new contender in 2026, the Cadillac F1 Team. With Mario Andretti, the 1978 world champion, at the helm to oversee the project, all the cards are in the hands of this American giant.
But who will drive for Cadillac F1 Team in 2026? Surprisingly, one name keeps coming up as a potential addition to the grid: Colton Herta.
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Colton Herta, the rising star ready for F1?
At just 24 years old, Colton Herta is already making a strong case for a spot at Cadillac. Currently competing in IndyCar for Andretti Global, the young American enjoys the unwavering support of Mario Andretti, who praises his experience and performance. With three years spent racing in Europe and competing alongside future stars like Lando Norris, Herta has shown that he knows European tracks inside out. His impressive test in a McLaren at Portimão last year further fueled the idea that he might be ready to step up to Formula 1. However, one obstacle remains: obtaining the coveted Super License, essential for racing in F1. Cadillac will need to closely monitor his results in 2025 to ensure he meets all the necessary criteria.
A two-driver strategy to shake up the grid
Herta being American makes him an undeniably attractive option, but Andretti emphasizes the importance of pairing him with an experienced driver. This combination could provide the perfect balance for the team: a young talent for the future and a veteran to lay down a solid foundation from the start. This approach is often seen in F1 teams. Next year, for instance, Mercedes will field Russell, a relatively experienced driver, alongside Antonelli, representing youth. This clearly shows Cadillac F1 Team’s ambition—they’re not just aiming to participate but to make a mark right from the beginning. However, no names have been confirmed yet for the mentor role. With rumors swirling about veteran drivers or possible transfers from established teams, the driver market could get very lively as 2026 approaches.
Who will be Cadillac F1 Team’s two drivers in 2026?
Colton Herta seems like a very likely option, but what about the second driver? In fact, Andretti and Cadillac are spoiled for choice. Looking at the current grid, several drivers are expected to leave by next season. Bottas and Magnussen could fit the bill. They bring experience and the ability to move a team forward. Bottas, in particular, is an excellent development driver, and it’s even rumored that Mercedes wants to bring him back as a test driver for 2025. Stay tuned. There’s also Alex Lynn, a British driver for Cadillac Racing in WEC, who has solid experience in single-seaters. And why not the American Jak Crawford, who was recently announced as a reserve driver for Andretti in Formula E? The issue with Crawford is his lack of experience. But just imagine, for a moment, an American team with two American drivers… Ultimately, the options are vast, and I’m sure we’ll learn more in the coming weeks.
This article explores Cadillac’s ambitions for its entry into Formula 1, centered around promising talent Colton Herta and a two-driver strategy. As 2026 draws closer, the team is working to build a 2026 lineup capable of making history in its very first season.
