American racing star Colton Herta's path to the Formula 1 grid with the new Cadillac team is accelerating. The former IndyCar driver, who transitioned to a test and development role for 2026, is now set for a significant on-track program, beginning with his FP1 debut at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona this June.

Herta will fulfill Cadillac's mandatory rookie free practice sessions, taking the wheel of the MAC-26 car for four FP1 outings this season. This is a major step in his integration with the team, requiring regular drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas to each sit out two sessions. For a driver balancing a full Formula 2 campaign, these F1 runs are invaluable seat time.

"I am looking forward to working closely with the team in a full Grand Prix environment," Herta stated, emphasizing his focus on learning and contributing to the team's weekend performance. His debut will be a busy one, as he'll juggle F1 practice with his F2 duties on the same Barcelona weekend—a true test of adaptability for any rising talent.

Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon sees this as a crucial development phase: "Completing all four of our young driver FP1 sessions is a natural next step... I look forward to seeing what he can bring." While only Barcelona is confirmed, Herta's remaining three sessions will be strategically placed throughout the calendar as he continues his F2 season, with rounds in Miami and Montreal up next.