Colton Herta Shifts from IndyCar to Formula 2: A Surprising Career Move

IndyCar Star Colton Herta to Race in Formula 2, Eyes 2027 F1 Debut with Cadillac

September 4, 2025 – In a stunning turn of events, Nine-time IndyCar race winner Colton Herta will transition to the Formula 2 series in 2026, as announced by Dan Towriss, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1.This unexpected move is a intentional strategy by Cadillac to nurture American talent and potentially integrate herta into its Formula 1 team as early as 2027.

Cadillac’s Bold Strategy for American Representation

Cadillac has already secured Formula 1 veterans Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as its initial race drivers for its debut season in the championship. Herta’s appointment as a test and growth driver, coupled with his move to Formula 2, underscores Cadillac’s commitment to fostering homegrown drivers. This initiative is especially important as Cadillac prepares to enter the pinnacle of motorsport.

A Calculated Risk: Leaving IndyCar for Formula 2

Herta’s decision represents a significant gamble, as he is relinquishing a successful IndyCar career to pursue his Formula 1 aspirations. Towriss emphasized the unconventional nature of this path, noting that Herta is not guaranteed a Formula 1 seat but is resolute to earn it. He will be challenged to adapt to new circuits and, crucially, to a different tire strategy compared to IndyCar.

“Colton is willing to be uncomfortable, taking a risk to prove he belongs in Formula One,” Towriss stated in an interview with Off Track with Hinch and Rossi. “This move demonstrates his dedication and willingness to push his boundaries.”

Previous F1 Attempts and the Road to Cadillac

this isn’t Herta’s first foray into the world of Formula 1. He previously explored opportunities with Andretti in 2021, even demonstrating impressive simulator performance against established F1 drivers like Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi. A potential deal fell through due to contractual disagreements. Later, in 2022, Herta tested with McLaren, and Red Bull considered him as a potential replacement for Pierre gasly, however a Super License issue prevented the deal.

Despite those setbacks, Herta’s accumulated experience and proven talent have made him Cadillac’s prime candidate for future Formula 1 consideration. According to Towriss, Herta’s proficiency in high-commitment corners and rapid adaptation to new facts make him a valuable asset.

Herta’s Strengths: A Profile for Formula 1 Success

Herta’s success in IndyCar, particularly his nine wins on street and road courses as well as eleven podium finishes, highlights his adaptability and skillset. Cadillac believes these attributes translate well to the demands of Formula 1.

Towriss further elaborated, “Colton excels at adapting to new data and executing complex maneuvers within the car, skills that are essential for success in Formula 1.”

Metric	Colton Herta (IndyCar)
Race Wins	9
Podium Finishes	11
2024 IndyCar Standing	Runner-up

Did You Know? Herta’s simulator performance during the Andretti F1 attempt was so impressive, he outperformed established F1 drivers within an hour of his first session.

The Growing Trend of Driver Movement Between Series

Colton Herta’s move reflects a growing trend of drivers strategically transitioning between different racing series to broaden thier experience and pursue opportunities in Formula 1. This approach underscores the increasing interconnectedness of motorsport and the importance of versatility.

Pro Tip: for aspiring race car drivers,diversifying racing experience is crucial. Exposure to different car types,tracks,and racing styles enhances adaptability and marketability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colton Herta’s Move

What do you think about Herta’s decision to leave IndyCar for Formula 2? Do you foresee a successful transition for the American driver into Formula 1?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!

How might Colton Herta’s move to Formula 2 impact the perception of IndyCar as a viable path to Formula 1 for other American drivers?

The shockwave in the Motorsport World

The news reverberated through the racing community on September 4th, 2025: Colton Herta, the established IndyCar star, is making a dramatic switch to the FIA Formula 2 championship. This move, announced earlier today, represents a meaningful departure from his prosperous North American career and a bold attempt to break into the pinnacle of motorsport – Formula 1.The decision has sparked intense debate amongst fans and analysts alike, questioning the timing and potential impact on Herta’s trajectory. IndyCar fans are especially surprised, given Herta’s consistent performance and multiple wins in the series.

Why Formula 2? Understanding the Path to F1

For American drivers, the path to Formula 1 has historically been challenging. Formula 2 serves as the primary feeder series,offering young talents the crucial experience and exposure needed to attract the attention of F1 teams.

Here’s a breakdown of why this move makes strategic sense, despite its unexpected nature:

Super Licence Points: Formula 2 is a key pathway to earning the FIA Super License, a prerequisite for competing in Formula 1. Accumulating enough points requires consistent top finishes in the series.

European Racing Experience: Herta has primarily raced in North America. Formula 2 provides invaluable experience on European circuits, many of which are on the F1 calendar.

Increased Visibility: Racing in front of F1 team personnel and scouts in the Formula 2 paddock considerably increases a driver’s chances of being noticed.

Development Prospect: The highly competitive nature of Formula 2 forces drivers to rapidly develop their skills and adapt to different racing conditions.

Herta’s IndyCar Career: A recap

Colton Herta’s IndyCar career has been nothing short of impressive. Since his debut in 2019, he’s quickly established himself as a frontrunner, securing multiple race wins and consistently challenging for the championship.

7 IndyCar Wins: Demonstrating his raw speed and racecraft.

Multiple Pole Positions: Highlighting his qualifying prowess.

Consistent Top-10 Finishes: Showcasing his reliability and ability to consistently deliver results.

andretti Autosport Association: His long-standing relationship with Andretti Autosport has been instrumental in his success.

However, despite his talent, opportunities in Formula 1 have remained elusive. Previous attempts to secure a seat were hampered by Super License point limitations.

The Team and the Challenge Ahead

Herta will be joining Hitech Grand Prix for the remainder of the 2025 Formula 2 season. Hitech, a relatively new but rapidly growing team, has already demonstrated its potential with strong performances in recent seasons. The challenge will be steep. He’s joining mid-season, meaning he’ll have limited time to learn the car, the tracks, and the nuances of Formula 2 racing.

Key challenges include:

1. Adapting to a Different Car: Formula 2 cars are significantly different from IndyCars, requiring a different driving style.
2. Learning New Tracks: Many of the European circuits are unfamiliar to Herta.
3. Intense competition: Formula 2 is packed with talented young drivers, all vying for a spot in Formula 1.
4. Limited Testing: Mid-season entry means limited opportunities for pre-race testing and development.

The American Driver Pipeline & Colton Herta’s Impact

Herta’s move reignites the conversation about the American driver pipeline to Formula 1. While drivers like Mario andretti and Michael Andretti have achieved success in F1, the flow of American talent has been limited in recent decades.

This move could:

Inspire Future Generations: Encourage more young American drivers to pursue open-wheel racing and aim for Formula 1.

Increase American Interest in F1: Boost the popularity of Formula 1 in the United States,already experiencing significant growth.

Open Doors for Other americans: Demonstrate that a successful IndyCar career can be a viable stepping stone to Formula 1.

potential F1 Teams & Future Prospects

While Herta’s immediate focus is on Formula 2, the ultimate goal is clear: a seat in Formula 1. Several teams could be potential destinations, depending on his performance and available opportunities.

Red Bull Racing: Known for its driver development program.

McLaren: Showing renewed competitiveness.

Aston Martin: Investing heavily in its F1 program.

* Williams: A team looking to rebuild and potentially offer opportunities to young drivers.

success in Formula 2 is crucial. Consistent podium finishes and a strong championship challenge will significantly increase his chances of attracting the attention of F1 teams. The timeline for a potential F1 debut remains uncertain, but Herta’s ambition and talent suggest he’s resolute to make it happen.