Sergio Perez has insisted he is not having any say in who lines up alongside him at Cadillac next year.
Ahead of last weekend's Mexico City Grand Prix, Cadillac announced it had secured the services of Perez until at least the end of the 2029 season.
However, there is believed to be further doubt over Valtteri Bottas' drive, despite the Finn joining on what was communicated as a multi-year deal.
Cadillac has been pushing for Herta to obtain his super licence, which he can do this weekend in Brazil during FP1, needing 24 laps to rack up the necessary mileage to secure the 40th point that's required to race in F1.
But Perez highlighted that he is leaving all of the decisions up to team boss Marcin Budkowski.
"No, not at all. I don't want to, either, because that's not my decision," Perez told media including RacingNews365.
"That's why we have someone like Marcin, who will be looking at all the data and information, and he will ultimately make that decision based on what he thinks is best for the future of the team.
"Obviously, we're in a period where we need to evolve extremely quickly. The next three or four months are really crucial in our preparation. So, yeah, I think it's down to him."
[Article continues below]
Herta doing 'good job' for Cadillac, says Perez
Herta made the switch to Formula 2 this year as he targeted a promotion to F1 in 2027, but the campaign has not gone as hoped.
With just five point-scoring finishes, Herta sits 19th in the drivers' championship.
However, Perez has asserted that the American's contribution on the F1 side has been valuable for Cadillac.
"He's doing a good job," he said. "He's bringing good feedback to the team and good information, which is all we need from him.
"Obviously, doing FP1s is always very difficult to show your speed or the level you're at. But now I think he's having more time in the car and in the simulator, so we're starting to see more of his speed.
"Obviously, it's not my decision, but I think it will be down to Marcin to decide who they want in the car. I'm also working really well with Valtteri.
"He's been very unfortunate in a few races. There isn't an easy decision for the team."
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes, Samuel Coop and Nick Golding as they look back on Mexico City but also look ahead to this weekend's São Paulo Grand Prix! Kimi Antonelli become world champion is a lead discussion, as is the latest Ferrari drama!
Rather watch this episode? Then click here!
Most read
In this article
Never miss a thing from the Formula 1 season! Add the 2026 F1 schedule to your calendar at the touch of a button. Subscribe below and put the dates and times of every race directly on your PC or smartphone, so you don't miss a second from the new season.
Download the F1 calendar Download the F1 calendar
A variant with just the race and qualifying is also available.
Click here to download it..













Join the conversation!