Mario Andretti has officially addressed the speculation surrounding General Motors Cadillac’s Formula 1 entry in 2026, confirming that Colton Herta is the frontrunner for one of the team’s coveted driver seats.
As the American outfit prepares to join the grid, Andretti shed light on the team’s early plans, including the possibility of featuring a young American talent alongside an experienced F1 driver.
Colton Herta Leads the Pack
Herta, a nine-time IndyCar race winner, has emerged as the top candidate to spearhead the American constructor’s campaign. Andretti confirmed the rumors, stating that Herta’s combination of skill and marketability aligns perfectly with the team’s vision.
“Right now, I think yes,” Andretti said. “You mentioning candidates – he’s [Colton Herta] definitely one that’s considered.”
Keeping Options Open
While Herta is the current favorite, Andretti emphasized that the 2025 season will be pivotal in determining the final driver lineup. With numerous contracts expiring ahead of 2026, the team plans to evaluate the drivers’ market closely to ensure it secures the best possible talent.
“There’s going to be a whole next season where we’re not going to be players,” Andretti explained. “There are more drivers available than teams at the moment. Ten teams seems a lot, but there’s a lot more drivers, a lot more talent out there.”
A True American Constructor
GM Cadillac and Andretti’s facility aim to create a truly American team, with at least one homegrown driver on the roster. However, Andretti clarified that the second driver will be chosen based on experience and performance, regardless of nationality.
“From our standpoint, I think the play at the beginning would be to have one experienced driver – nationality doesn’t matter – and then a young American talent. These are the objectives at the moment.”
Key Decisions Still Pending
As the team builds momentum toward its 2026 debut, several critical aspects remain undecided:
- Engine Provider: GM Cadillac must choose a customer engine to power their car under the 2026 regulations.
- Team Leadership: The team principal and key technical personnel are yet to be finalized.
- Base of Operations: Andretti’s Silverstone facility is rumored to serve as the headquarters for the team’s F1 operations.
Why Herta?
Herta’s inclusion would mark a significant milestone for American motorsport. At just 24 years old by the time of Cadillac’s debut, Herta would bring youthful energy, proven racing pedigree, and a strong connection to the U.S. fanbase. This aligns with GM Cadillac’s mission to bolster Formula 1’s growing popularity in America while also presenting a competitive challenge on the grid.
An Exciting Addition to F1
The entry of GM Cadillac and Andretti as an 11th team promises to inject fresh energy into Formula 1. With a mix of American innovation and global expertise, the new constructor aims to not only compete but also inspire a new generation of fans.
As Andretti and GM Cadillac continue to finalize their plans, the possibility of a young American star like Colton Herta racing alongside a seasoned veteran paints an exciting picture for F1’s 2026 season.