HINCHCLIFFE: Will Cadillac’s new test driver Colton Herta be America’s next F1 star?

IndyCar winner and F1 TV analyst James Hinchcliffe explains what Herta will bring to the new Cadillac team – and why he’s given up a front-running seat in IndyCar to chase his F1 dream.

Sep 17, 2025 3:03pm UTC

IndyCar Race Winner and AnalystJames Hinchcliffe

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - APRIL 01: Colton Herta, driver of the #26 Gainbridge Honda, prepares to drive

If you are even a remote Formula 1 fan you’ve no doubt heard the recent news about IndyCar star Colton Herta forfeiting his place as a front runner in the American championship to take on a role as Cadillac F1’s new test and development driver.

His role with Cadillac will be dovetailed with a season racing in F2, with the aim of getting a better grasp of the circuits, the cadence of F1 weekends and the very particular traits of Pirelli racing rubber. Herta's ultimate goal is a race seat in F1 with the General Motors-backed outfit.