Colton Herta will drive for Cadillac in first practice at the Brazilian Grand Prix, with a chance to earn the one remaining point he needs for an FIA Super License. The license would make him eligible for a Formula 1 race seat, but it would not guarantee a 2027 promotion: Cadillac’s driver plans could also be affected by a possible change in ownership.

By the Numbers
  • Herta has 39 of the 40 points required for a Super License.
  • He needs to complete at least 24 laps, or 100 kilometers, in Brazil to qualify for the final point.
  • The Brazilian session would be his sixth FP1 outing with Cadillac this season; the team needed four rookie sessions to meet the FIA requirement.
  • At least seven parties have reportedly expressed interest in the team; owner Mark Walter is reportedly seeking at least $3 billion for his stake.
Yes, But

Even if Herta earns the license, a seat is not assured. A reported sale of controlling owner TWG Global’s stake could shift Cadillac’s priorities, while Mercedes reserve Frederik Vesti is another potential candidate. General Motors has said it plans to retain its stake, but the ownership split has not been disclosed.

State of Play
  • Herta replaces Sergio Perez in Brazil; reliability problems, including suspension failures, remain a possible obstacle to completing the required distance.
  • Cadillac has previously highlighted Herta’s American identity as a plus for its U.S.-focused team.
  • Herta and Valtteri Bottas’ prospects for 2027 remain unsettled, with performance, team assessments and ownership decisions all in play.
What's Next

Herta’s immediate task is to complete the mileage in Brazil and secure the license. Cadillac’s longer-term driver decision will take shape as the team evaluates candidates and the reported ownership talks develop.

Bottom Line

The Super License could remove Herta’s clearest eligibility hurdle, but the bigger question is whether Cadillac’s future leadership still sees him as the right fit for its 2027 lineup.