Herta gets test at McLaren to prove himself for Formula 1

Colton Herta will make an appearance for McLaren. Later in the year, the American might get a chance during a first free practice session, but first he will make metres in an old McLaren.

McLaren previously announced in 2022 that it would give Herta a chance in Formula 1 this year. Herta drives IndyCar for Michael Andretti's team and was previously mentioned as a possible driver for the American team if given the chance in F1. That is not yet the case, but McLaren offers Herta an (interim) solution.

Later in the year Herta might get a chance in free practice, as McLaren is obliged to put two rookies in the car. Herta fits that description, but first he has to gain experience in an F1 car. He gets the time for that this week, when he comes into action on Monday and Tuesday at Portimao. He will drive the 2021 MCL35M there. On Wednesday, Will Stevens will take the wheel. Stevens is a simulator driver for McLaren and a former F1 driver for Caterham and Manor.

Team boss Andreas Seidl confirmed in Spielberg to Motorsport.com Herta will get the chance to drive their F1 car. It is a chance for the number ten of the current IndyCar championship to show what he can do and a moment to gain some experience with such a car. McLaren first wants to see who is good enough to force a test during a free practice.