Frederik Vesti has emerged as a contender for a Cadillac Formula 1 drive in 2027. The Mercedes reserve driver is now on the shortlist for the potentially vacant seat, alongside American driver Colton Herta. This development comes amid increasing uncertainty surrounding Valtteri Bottas’s position with the American team for the upcoming season.
Cadillac, which debuted in Formula 1 in 2026, confirmed Sergio Perez for a multi-year deal extending until at least the end of 2029. Perez joined Cadillac for their inaugural 2026 campaign, forming an experienced lineup with Bottas.
Valtteri Bottas signed a multi-year contract with Cadillac for the 2026 season, reportedly running through 2027. However, his continuation for 2027 is not guaranteed, as Cadillac has not yet committed to exercising an option in his contract.
Bottas’s performance in 2026 has been scrutinised, particularly in comparison to his teammate. Perez has held a marginal edge in qualifying, leading 10-8, and a more pronounced advantage in races where both cars finished, with a 6-1 record. Bottas has also recorded eight retirements during the 2026 season.
Colton Herta has officially secured the 40 FIA Super Licence points required for Formula 1 eligibility. This milestone was achieved by completing 100km in Free Practice 1 at the recent Mexico City Grand Prix, where he drove Bottas’s Cadillac.
Herta, who switched from IndyCar to Formula 2 for 2026 and serves as a Cadillac reserve driver, had accumulated 39 Super Licence points prior to his Mexico City outing. A significant portion of these points came from his runner-up finish in the 2024 IndyCar championship.
General Motors, Cadillac’s parent company, is reportedly keen on promoting Herta to a race seat for 2027. This preference is attributed to his American nationality and a long-standing relationship with GM and Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss.
Frederik Vesti, currently a Mercedes Sim, Test, and Third Driver, is also a strong candidate. He has a pre-existing connection with Cadillac, having competed with Whelen Cadillac Racing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship.
Vesti’s IMSA record includes three wins and three other podium finishes with the team, including consecutive victories in 2025 and four consecutive podiums by March 2026. His technical feedback and car development capabilities, evidenced by his work on the Mercedes W17, are considered assets.
At the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, Vesti replaced George Russell in the Mercedes W17 for FP1, securing a third-place finish. This performance is notable for a non-race driver in a practice session.
Cadillac Team Principal Marcin Budkowski has refrained from confirming the 2027 driver lineup. He stated that any announcements regarding driver contracts would be made through official team releases when appropriate.
While General Motors reportedly favours Herta, some within the Cadillac team are understood to prefer retaining Bottas. This internal perspective values continuity and stability for a team still establishing itself in Formula 1.
Other drivers, including Alex Dunne and Esteban Ocon, have engaged in exploratory discussions with Cadillac. However, Herta is currently considered the leading contender if a change is made to the lineup.
