Jenson Button believes “Colton Herta would be immediately fast in Formula 1”. Colton Herta has the right mindset to be competitive from the very start in F1.

Colton Herta Prepares for F1
As weeks pass, the GM-Cadillac team continues to take shape. Following the establishment of its “chain of command,” the selection of power unit and gearbox supplier (Ferrari), and the appointment of key technical figures such as Rob White and Pat Symonds, the American outfit will spend the coming months building relationships to assemble its 2026 driver lineup.

Mario Andretti, the “super” consultant for the 11th team, envisions a driver pairing consisting of a promising American talent and an experienced second driver. At least regarding the first seat, the objective is clear: the top target is Colton Herta. However, Colton Herta will need to secure enough points in 2025 to reach the 40 required to obtain a Super License, which is necessary to race in Formula 1.

Jenson Button’s Remarks
Colton Herta isn’t just on Andretti’s radar but also has the support of Jenson Button. The 2009 World Champion, who teamed up with Colton Herta at the most recent 24 Hours of Daytona (where they finished third), believes the American has everything it takes to excel in F1: “He’s extremely fast in everything he does. He’ll be quick in F1 right from the start. Of course, there’s a lot to learn, as it’s very different from IndyCar. But Colton has the right mentality,” Button told *Sky Sports UK*.

The General Motors and Cadillac team is now awaiting formal approval to compete on the grid starting from the 2026 season. It will certainly race with a Ferrari-supplied power unit and chassis in 2026 and 2027, while General Motors aims to fulfill its commitments by entering as a power unit manufacturer beginning in 2028.