Cadillac has confirmed that test driver Colton Herta will participate in four Free Practice 1 sessions for the American team this year.

Herta, from Santa Clarita, California, will participate in his first FP1 at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, before three other outings over the course of the season.

The FP1 runs mark his first official Grand Prix weekend appearances for the team and will be a key milestone in his development, as the American driver looks to gain valuable experience in a live race weekend environment following runs in the team's simulator in Charlotte.

"I can't wait to get behind the wheel of the car for the first time," said Herta. "I am looking forward to working closely with the team in a full Grand Prix environment and am fully focused on learning from every appearance. I hope I can contribute to the overall race weekend and help the team, Checo and Valtteri as much as possible."

The announcement of his FP1 program comes after a strong debut weekend in the Formula 2 Championship at Albert Park, where he finished seventh in the Feature Race.

"Colton is a top talent," said Graeme Lowdon, "which he has not only proved by building an impressive resume in the NTT IndyCar Series before joining us, but also with a strong start to his Formula 2 season.

"Completing all four of our young driver FP1 sessions is a natural next step in his test driver role, and I look forward to seeing what he can bring in terms of development and focus."

"Colton has really earned this opportunity," added Dan Towriss. "These sessions are a valuable opportunity for him to integrate with the team, develop his skills behind the wheel and off the track, and learn about a Grand Prix weekend from the inside."

Herta will also take to the track during the Miami Grand Prix weekend, when F2 will visit the Miami Autodrome for the first time.