Colton Herta’s Potential Transition to Formula 2: A Pathway to F1
Colton Herta, a prominent figure in the IndyCar series, may be setting his sights on a move to Formula 2 in 2026 to accumulate the necessary Super License points for a future in Formula 1. Herta, who currently competes for TWG Motorsports under the Andretti name, has previously been linked to potential opportunities with Cadillac’s F1 team. However, the lack of an FIA Super License has hindered his immediate chances of securing a Formula 1 seat.
Current Standing and Points Accumulation
As the IndyCar season progresses, Herta finds himself in a challenging position. If Kyle Kirkwood participates in the upcoming race in Nashville, Herta will be limited to a maximum finish of sixth in the current IndyCar standings. This scenario would leave him with only 37 of the 40 points required for a Super License. Moreover, there is a possibility that he could slip out of the top ten in the standings, which would further reduce his total to 31 points over the past three years.
To drive in Formula 1, a driver must secure a minimum of 40 Super License points, which are awarded based on performance in various racing series. Formula 2, as a key step in the F1 feeder series, provides a significant opportunity for drivers to earn these points. The top three finishers in the F2 championship receive the full 40 points, while the entire top six are awarded points in double digits. This makes Formula 2 a crucial platform for drivers like Herta who are aiming to advance their careers in motorsport.
The Advantages of Racing in Formula 2
One of the notable benefits of competing in Formula 2 is its alignment with Formula 1. The F2 championship races on the same weekends as F1, taking place at 14 of the 24 Grand Prix venues during the season. This exposure allows drivers to familiarize themselves with the circuits, teams, and the overall atmosphere of F1 events. Additionally, F2 utilizes Pirelli tires that are designed to degrade over the course of a race, adding an extra element of strategy that drivers must navigate.
Herta’s previous experience racing in Europe in 2015 and 2016, although not in the official F1 feeder series of Formula 2 or Formula 3, has provided him with a foundational understanding of international motorsport. However, gaining experience in F2 would be pivotal for his development as a driver and his future aspirations in Formula 1.
Strategic Planning with Cadillac and the Future
Cadillac’s commitment to fielding experienced drivers such as Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas for their inaugural season in Formula 1 indicates a strategic approach to building a competitive team. By placing Herta in Formula 2, the organization could facilitate his growth as a driver while also aligning him with the Cadillac F1 team. This would allow Herta to gain invaluable experience and insights into the intricacies of the racing series, effectively preparing him for a potential race seat once he secures his Super License.
Discussions have reportedly taken place with multiple Formula 2 teams regarding the possibility of running Herta in their lineup. However, it remains uncertain whether these conversations will lead to a formal agreement. For Andretti, the decision to allow Herta to transition to F2 hinges on securing a replacement driver in IndyCar, with Will Power being considered among the potential candidates.
Support and Commitment from TWG Motorsports
The move to explore Herta’s participation in Formula 2 aligns with the comments made by Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports. At the beginning of the week, Towriss emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for American drivers in Formula 1. His commitment suggests a broader vision for nurturing talent within the U.S. motorsport scene, and the potential placement of Herta in F2 could be a significant step in that direction.
When questioned directly about the possibility of Herta moving to F2, Towriss clarified that no official announcements were being made at that time. Nevertheless, the ongoing discussions and strategic planning indicate that the possibility is being seriously considered.
The Road Ahead for Colton Herta
As Herta navigates his current position in IndyCar, the prospect of moving to Formula 2 presents a unique opportunity for him to enhance his skill set and work towards his ultimate goal of competing in Formula 1. The transition would not only allow him to accumulate the necessary points for his Super License but also immerse him in the competitive environment of F2, where he can learn and grow as a driver.
While the path to Formula 1 is undoubtedly challenging, Herta’s talent and determination have already made him a standout competitor in IndyCar. The potential move to F2 could serve as a vital stepping stone in his journey, positioning him closer to achieving his dreams of racing at the highest level of motorsport.
Conclusion
Colton Herta’s journey in the world of motorsport continues to evolve as he considers a move to Formula 2. By making this strategic transition, he aims to secure the necessary Super License points and further his career in the highly competitive realm of Formula 1. With support from TWG Motorsports and the potential for invaluable experience in F2, Herta is poised to make significant strides in his racing career. The coming years will be critical as he works towards his ultimate goal of competing among the elite in Formula 1.
