Colton Herta’s Transition to Formula 2: A Bold Move for the IndyCar Star
Colton Herta, a celebrated nine-time winner in the IndyCar series, is making headlines with his unexpected decision to transition to Formula 2 in 2026. This announcement comes from Dan Towriss, the CEO of the Cadillac Formula 1 team, which signifies a significant shift in Herta’s career trajectory. Known for his impressive performances in IndyCar, Herta’s move to F2 is a strategic step towards achieving his long-term goal of racing in Formula 1.
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team and Its Ambitions
Cadillac has recently entered the Formula 1 arena, appointing experienced drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas to lead its inaugural season. Herta has been designated as a test and development driver, a role that underscores Cadillac’s commitment to nurturing American talent in the highly competitive world of motorsport. This initiative aligns with Cadillac’s broader strategy of increasing the presence of U.S. drivers in Formula 1, a sport often dominated by European and Asian competitors.
Herta’s Move to Formula 2: A Unique Path
The decision for Herta to compete in Formula 2 is particularly noteworthy, as it is not common for a driver with a successful IndyCar background to take a step back to junior single-seaters. This unconventional choice is driven by Herta’s aspiration to prepare for a potential Formula 1 debut in 2027. Dan Towriss emphasized the significance of this choice, acknowledging the risks involved but also expressing pride in Herta for pursuing his dreams.
In the conversation on the "Off Track with Hinch and Rossi" podcast, Towriss stated, “We’ve been fortunate to keep Colton at Andretti in the IndyCar team, and so now, he’s going to pursue that dream in Formula 1.” This statement reflects the support Herta has from his current team and highlights the importance of this pivotal moment in his career.
The Challenges Ahead for Herta
Transitioning from IndyCar to Formula 2 presents a unique set of challenges for Herta. The race formats, car dynamics, and tire strategies differ significantly between the two racing series. Herta will need to familiarize himself with new tracks and adapt to the different handling characteristics of the Formula 2 cars, which require a distinct driving style compared to what he has experienced in IndyCar.
Towriss mentioned the learning curve Herta will face: “He’s got to learn tracks, he’s got to learn tyres – tyres are a big part of that, very different from IndyCar from that standpoint.” This emphasizes that Herta’s journey will entail a considerable amount of adaptation and growth as he navigates the complexities of the F2 environment.
Herta’s Potential for a Future in Formula 1
As Herta prepares for his move to Formula 2, questions arise regarding his prospects for securing a seat in Formula 1. Towriss expressed confidence in Herta’s ability to earn a place in the top tier of motorsport. However, he also stressed that Herta must prove himself through his performances in F2.
“I’m confident Colton will get his shot, but he’s got to earn it, right?” Towriss remarked. This statement underscores the competitive nature of Formula 1, where talent alone isn’t enough; drivers must consistently demonstrate their capabilities to secure coveted positions within the sport.
Acknowledging Herta’s Courageous Decision
Herta’s decision to leave the security of IndyCar for the uncertainties of F2 is a testament to his character and ambition. Towriss praised Herta’s willingness to take risks, noting that it would have been easier for him to remain in IndyCar, where he is already well-established. “What I applaud most about him is his willingness to be uncomfortable,” Towriss stated. This sentiment highlights the courage it takes for athletes to step outside their comfort zones in pursuit of their dreams.
Herta’s Previous Near Misses with Formula 1
Herta has had several near opportunities to enter the Formula 1 arena in the past. His first close brush with F1 came in 2021 when Andretti attempted to acquire the Sauber operation. During this period, Herta impressed team officials during a simulator session in Switzerland, outpacing the then-current F1 drivers, Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi, within an hour of getting behind the wheel.
Despite the promising performance, the Sauber deal ultimately fell through due to complications in the negotiations. Michael Andretti revealed that “control issues in the final hours of the negotiations” led to the deal’s collapse, leaving Herta’s aspirations momentarily unfulfilled.
Exploring Other Opportunities
In addition to the Sauber opportunity, Herta also participated in a two-day test with McLaren in Portimao in July 2022. His performances caught the attention of Red Bull Racing, which considered him a potential candidate to replace Pierre Gasly at AlphaTauri. However, despite his impressive standings in IndyCar, Herta faced challenges obtaining a superlicence, which is a requirement for competing in Formula 1.
The FIA rejected Herta’s request for a superlicence, a significant setback that caused Red Bull to reconsider its options. This experience highlights the complexities and obstacles that young drivers can face on their path to Formula 1.
Herta’s Experience and Skill Set
Despite the hurdles he has encountered, Herta’s extensive experience in racing has made him a standout candidate for Cadillac’s F1 team. His track record speaks volumes about his capabilities behind the wheel. Towriss noted that Herta has built a solid foundation of skills and experiences that are attractive to Formula 1 teams. “He’s built up a natural body of work that not everybody knows about in Formula 1,” Towriss pointed out.
Herta’s proficiency in high-commitment corners and his success on street and road courses—where he has secured all nine of his IndyCar victories—demonstrate his versatility as a driver. Furthermore, Towriss emphasized Herta’s ability to adapt quickly to new information, a crucial skill that will serve him well in the fast-paced environment of Formula 1.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Colton Herta
Colton Herta’s transition to Formula 2 marks a pivotal moment in his racing career. As he embarks on this new journey, he faces challenges and uncertainties, but he also holds the potential for remarkable growth and success. The support from the Cadillac Formula 1 team and his willingness to take risks will be instrumental as he strives to make his mark in the world of motorsport.
Herta’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring drivers and a reminder of the tenacity required to pursue one’s dreams in the competitive realm of racing. With determination and talent, Herta aims to carve out a path that could ultimately lead him to the pinnacle of motorsport: a seat in Formula 1.
