Cadillac sets modest F2 target for Herta as part of F1 development plan
Cadillac F1 boss Dan Towriss says a top-10 finish in F2 is a suitable target for development driver Colton Herta in 2026, focusing on his adaptation to European tracks and Pirelli tires for a future F1 seat. Herta, however, maintains his personal goal is to win, setting up a compelling storyline for his crucial transition year.
Cadillac Formula 1 CEO Dan Towriss has stated that a top-10 finish in the 2026 Formula 2 championship would be an acceptable result for test driver Colton Herta, who is being groomed for a future race seat. The IndyCar star, joining Hitech GP for the F2 campaign, views the goal as a baseline, emphasizing his personal ambition is to win races and be competitive from the outset.
Why it matters:
This structured development path highlights Cadillac's methodical, long-term approach to building its F1 program, contrasting with simply buying an experienced driver. For Herta, it represents a critical opportunity to adapt to European circuits and Pirelli tires—key hurdles for any driver aiming to transition from IndyCar to F1. His success or struggle will be a major indicator of whether the American can finally break into the Grand Prix grid.
The details:
- Team Expectations: Towriss clarified the primary goal is Herta's overall development for F1, not just championship position. The program includes F1 simulator work and planned FP1 sessions to build his superlicense points and experience.
- Superlicense Math: A top-10 finish in F2 would require Herta to complete three FP1 outings to earn the necessary three additional points for an F1 superlicense. A top-eight finish would grant the license outright.
- Driver Mindset: Despite the team's stated goal, Herta asserted a winning mentality is essential. "If the goal isn't to win, then I don't really see why you'd do it," he said, acknowledging the challenge of jumping directly into the highly competitive F2 series.
- The Bigger Picture: This move is a core part of Cadillac's strategy to control its own driver development destiny, differing from Haas's model of relying heavily on Ferrari for talent.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Herta's adaptation speed during the 2026 F2 season. His performance in both the feeder series and any F1 practice sessions will be the ultimate test of his readiness. If he can exceed the top-10 target and demonstrate strong pace, a race seat with the Cadillac F1 team in 2027 or beyond becomes a very tangible prospect, potentially ending the long drought for an American driver in Formula 1.