The American is leaving IndyCar after seven full seasons with Andretti Global, where he collected nine victories and became the series’ youngest-ever race winner. His focus now shifts to building the experience needed to secure the FIA Super Licence required for a full F1 seat.

To achieve that, Herta is set to contest a season in Formula 2 next year while combining his racing with development work for Cadillac. Running in Europe will give him valuable mileage on circuits featured in F1, as well as an early chance to adapt to Pirelli tyres.

Herta described the move as a “dream step” in his career, stressing that his ambition has always been to compete in Formula 1. Cadillac meanwhile will rely on proven winners Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for its debut campaign, with Herta supporting the project’s development.

Team principal Graeme Lowdon praised Herta’s maturity and speed, while Cadillac’s close ties with the Andretti organisation have played a role in bringing him into the fold. The decision marks a bold change of direction for Herta, but one he hopes will finally pave the way to a full-time place on the F1 grid.