Juan Pablo Montoya has publicly advocated for Cadillac to secure Colton Herta for a Formula 1 seat in the 2027 season. This recommendation comes despite Herta’s ongoing performance challenges during his current Formula 2 campaign. Montoya’s stance suggests a focus on Herta’s potential rather than his immediate feeder series results.
Cadillac, having made its Formula 1 debut in the current 2026 season, has operated near the rear of the grid. The American team, a collaboration between General Motors and TWG Motorsports, is currently utilising Ferrari power units. This arrangement is set to continue until 2029, when Cadillac plans to introduce its own in-house developed power units.
Current Cadillac drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez are guiding the team’s technical direction. The team is preparing to shift its development resources entirely towards its 2027 challenger. This strategic move aims to improve competitiveness for the upcoming season.
Colton Herta is presently competing in the 2026 Formula 2 Championship as Cadillac’s test driver. He paused his IndyCar career to participate in the feeder series, with the objective of gaining crucial experience with Pirelli tyres, various F1 circuits, and accumulating Super Licence points.
Herta’s 2026 F2 season has been marked by a lack of significant results. He currently sits 17th in the standings at the halfway point of the championship. Despite these struggles, Herta has indicated he is learning valuable lessons regarding tyre management and track knowledge.
Montoya’s current endorsement for Herta marks a shift from his earlier reservations. In March and April 2025, Montoya expressed doubts about Herta’s potential F1 transition, citing the significant adaptation required from IndyCar and the inherent risks of joining a new team.
At that time, Montoya suggested that experienced F1 drivers such as Sergio Pérez and Zhou Guanyu would be more suitable for Cadillac’s inaugural 2026 lineup. His current advocacy for Herta for 2027 indicates a revised assessment of the American driver’s long-term prospects in Formula 1.
The driver market for 2027 is beginning to take shape, with Cadillac reportedly considering various options. Ferrari is said to be discussing a potential loan of their junior driver, Rafael Camara, to Cadillac for the 2027 season.
Herta’s connection to the Cadillac F1 project dates back to Michael Andretti’s initial bid for an F1 entry. Herta was Andretti Global’s preferred driver choice before their application was ultimately rejected by Formula One Management.
Cadillac’s focus on its 2027 car and its driver lineup will be critical as the team aims to establish itself further in Formula 1. The decision regarding Herta’s future will be a key factor in their long-term strategy.
