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Colton Herta, McLaren MCL35M
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Opinion

The inconvenient truth about F1’s ‘American driver’ dream

OPINION: The Formula 1 grid's wait for a new American driver looks set to continue into 2023 as the few remaining places up for grabs - most notably at McLaren - look set to go elsewhere. This is despite the Woking outfit giving tests to IndyCar aces recently, showing that the Stateside single-seater series still has some way to go to being seen as a viable feeder option for F1

That McLaren has made a play to sign Oscar Piastri doesn’t just underline the team’s lack of faith in Daniel Ricciardo to arrest his poor form. It also reveals that despite the 2021 car tests afforded to IndyCar shining lights Colton Herta and Patricio O’Ward, the cream of the crop from the Stateside series can’t make a wholly convincing case to be given a plum seat in Formula 1. As such, the best option was to prise the reigning F2 champion away from his nurturers at Alpine.

F1’s relationship with IndyCar can be uneasy. The fact is the grand prix cars are quicker, driver salaries higher, viewing figures greater. Some choose this to mean the American series is in every respect the poor relation to ensure it remains isolated and underestimated. Others appreciate the split and are content to watch IndyCars more slowly slither their way around the streets of Long Beach as plenty of entertaining opposite lock is required.

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