Cadillac team principal Marcin Budkowski has confirmed that Californian test driver Colton Herta is just one Super Licence point away from Formula 1 eligibility after participating in Free Practice 1 at the United States Grand Prix. The update has intensified discussion about which American driver is best placed to become the country’s next genuine Grand Prix contender.
Fifty years after Mario Andretti’s world title, the United States still awaits a new championship challenger. Several candidates are now in the frame.
### HERTA EDGES CLOSER TO THE GRID
Herta established himself as one of IndyCar’s brightest talents, winning on only his second start and finishing runner-up in the 2024 championship. Super Licence points awarded for IndyCar success are limited, however, prompting a move to Formula 2 in 2026 alongside his Cadillac test role.
The European campaign has been difficult, with a best finish of fifth and many races spent toward the back of the field. Free Practice appearances for Cadillac have nevertheless allowed him to accumulate the final points required. Budkowski confirmed the American is now within touching distance of full eligibility.
“Obviously, having an American driver in an American team is a great story,” the Cadillac principal said. “It needs to be the right time and the right driver, but we’re working on that. We’re working that with Colton. There are some really exciting American talents coming up through the ranks as well.”
### THE WIDER AMERICAN TALENT PIPELINE
Herta is not the only US driver positioning himself for a future opportunity.
Jak Crawford, the Aston Martin reserve, already holds the necessary Super Licence points. The 21-year-old from North Carolina finished runner-up in Formula 2 after six race wins across three seasons and has spent nearly two years in a reserve role. Whether an opening materialises at Aston Martin or elsewhere remains to be seen.
Ugo Ugochukwu represents the next wave. The 19-year-old New Yorker has just claimed the FIA Formula 3 title after earlier successes in Euro 4 and the Macau Grand Prix. A former McLaren junior, he is expected to graduate to Formula 2 with Campos. At 6ft 4in he would be the tallest driver on the current grid, raising practical questions about cockpit fit, but his junior record is among the strongest of any American prospect.
Sebastian Wheldon, son of the late IndyCar star Dan Wheldon, is another name to watch. After finishing third in Italian Formula 4 with six wins, he steps up to FIA Formula 3 with Trident in 2027. Backed by the same TWG ownership group that controls Cadillac, he forms part of a coordinated long-term pathway.
Kyle Kirkwood, a proven IndyCar race winner with Andretti, offers a more experienced alternative. His success in the American series keeps him in the conversation should Cadillac ultimately look beyond Herta.
### THE CHALLENGE OF CONVERTING US TALENT INTO F1 SUCCESS
America’s depth of motorsport talent has rarely translated into sustained Formula 1 success. The Super Licence system, the cost of competing in European junior categories, and the limited number of available seats all create barriers. Cadillac’s presence as a full manufacturer team with American ownership offers a clearer pathway than has existed for many years.
Budkowski’s comments suggest the team is actively preparing for the possibility of an American race driver, while remaining measured about timing and readiness. Performance, not nationality, will ultimately decide any decision.
### WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE SPORT IN THE UNITED STATES
Formula 1’s popularity in America has never been higher, with three races on the calendar and growing mainstream attention. A competitive US driver in a competitive car would amplify that interest further. Whether that driver is Herta, Crawford, Ugochukwu or someone still further down the ladder, the next two seasons will be critical in determining who emerges.
For now, Herta stands closest to the threshold. One more Super Licence point would make him eligible. Turning eligibility into a race seat is the next, and far harder, step. Cadillac’s willingness to invest in the process suggests the team believes the story of an American driver in an American car is worth pursuing — provided the performance justifies it.
