Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss has declared that Colton Herta’s transition to Formula 2 this season is a strategic move aimed at securing a Formula 1 seat by 2027. As part of Cadillac’s F1 development program, the American driver has left behind his successful IndyCar career to focus on earning the required Super License points, which means finishing in the top eight in the F2 championship.
Focus on Learning and Preparing Through Formula 2
Towriss emphasized that Herta’s participation in Formula 2 is designed to help him gain vital experience with Grand Prix circuits and Pirelli tires—key elements for adapting to Formula 1’s demands.
“Overall, I expect Colton to finish in the top 10 in Formula 2,”
Towriss told motorsport-total.com.
“His participation in the series is primarily about getting to know the tracks and tires better. This is part of his preparation for Formula 1.”
He added that the final decision on Herta’s readiness won’t rely solely on his F2 results.
“It won’t just be his Formula 2 performance that will be decisive. We’ll use all the project’s resources to assess Colton’s readiness for Formula 1.”
Cadillac’s Long-Term Strategy Highlights American Talent
With established drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas already competing under Cadillac’s Formula 1 effort this year, the team’s long-range plans include developing American drivers. Herta, recognized as one of the brightest American stars, is positioned as the prime candidate for a seat in 2027 should the opportunity arise.
Herta Acknowledges Challenges of Unusual Career Path
In a recent interview with the New York Times, Herta admitted the unconventional nature of his move from IndyCar to Formula 2.
“It is a bizarre career path, I won’t deny that,”
he said.
“I’m a professional racing driver. I didn’t want to go into a junior category at 25 years old.”
Still, Herta revealed that after careful consideration, the decision became clear.
“But once we talked it through, it was an easy decision. I want to get to Formula 1. At this point, this is my best chance, and I’ve got to fight for it.”
Balancing Multiple Racing Commitments While Developing Skills
This season, Herta will continue to race in endurance events with Wayne Taylor Racing alongside his full F2 campaign, while also serving as a test driver supporting Cadillac’s F1 program. This multifaceted approach allows him to sharpen the specific skills necessary for Formula 1 competition through exposure to the series’ tracks and tire compounds.
Reflecting on public perception, Herta said,
“I’m not worried about what people think about this career path. I’m not going into this with an ego. I’m kind of relearning how to ride a bike a little.”
