American racing talent Colton Herta has made a surprising decision to leave IndyCar and compete in Formula 2 in 2026, aiming to secure a spot in Formula 1. At 25 years old, Herta’s “Colton Herta Formula 2 gamble” represents a critical career move designed to place him directly on the path to F1, where many thousands aspire but few succeed.
Known for his speed and skill in IndyCar, where he has earned nine victories, Herta’s journey toward Formula 1 has been paved with obstacles. Attempts to join AlphaTauri in 2023 were blocked by the rigid superlicence requirement, and multiple plans to enter F1 through his former Andretti team failed to materialize. Each near opportunity to join Formula 1 ended without success, pushing Herta to take an unconventional step.
Why Herta is Choosing Formula 2 Despite Established IndyCar Success
Herta’s decision to race in Formula 2 may seem surprising given his solid standing in IndyCar, but it reflects a calculated effort to secure his Formula 1 dream. By competing in Formula 2, Herta will race on the same renowned circuits as F1 drivers and under the supervision of decision-makers who closely monitor emerging talents. This proximity aims to boost his chances of being noticed and ultimately recruited for an F1 team.
Speaking candidly on the Off Track with Hinch and Rossi podcast, Herta said,
“I’ve always wanted Formula 1. I know the risks, I know what I’m leaving behind. But this is my last shot at it, and if I don’t try, I’ll regret it forever.”
—Colton Herta, Racing Driver
He acknowledges the challenge of stepping down into a junior series predominantly populated by younger drivers but believes this is the necessary risk to achieve his long-standing goal.
Backing from Cadillac Fuels Herta’s Commitment and Ambition
Herta’s Formula 2 entry is supported by Cadillac, which will launch its Formula 1 team in 2026. He has secured a role as a test and development driver for Cadillac’s F1 project, eyeing a full-time race seat for the 2027 season. The Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss highlighted Herta’s boldness, stating,
“This is not the comfortable path. He’s leaving behind IndyCar wins and security to go into one of the toughest championships in the world. That says everything about how badly he wants Formula 1.”
—Dan Towriss, Cadillac CEO
Towriss underscores the difficulty of Herta’s challenge and the determination required to follow this path. Competing in Formula 2 puts Herta in an unforgiving racing environment where performance is critical and margins for error are slim.
The Pressure and High Stakes of Performing in Formula 2
Herta faces an immense challenge in proving he can adapt quickly to Formula 2 machinery and competition levels. Success in the series is pivotal not only for his career but also for acquiring the necessary superlicence points to qualify for Formula 1. Finishing in at least the top eight will be essential for accumulating these points and convincing F1 teams of his readiness.
Herta expressed confidence in his abilities and determination, sharing,
“If I didn’t believe in myself, I’d have stayed in IndyCar, But I do. I know I can adapt. I know I can fight with the best.”
—Colton Herta, Racing Driver
However, the potential downside is significant; a poor showing could effectively close the door on Herta’s F1 aspirations for good, making this move a high-risk, high-reward gamble.
Legacy and Future Prospects for Herta and American Motorsport
Herta’s departure from IndyCar means leaving behind a promising track record and the possibility of future championships. Yet, this intense pursuit of Formula 1 reflects his passion and the changing landscape of American drivers aiming for global racing recognition. If successful, he would mark a rare American presence in Formula 1, greatly enhancing the profile of Cadillac’s F1 project and inspiring motorsport fans back home.
Towriss summed up Herta’s mindset, emphasizing the personal gamble,
“Colton is betting on himself. He’s chosen the hard road because that’s the one that gives him a shot. And if he makes it, he’ll be stronger for it.”
—Dan Towriss, Cadillac CEO
Herta remains optimistic about his path, stating,
“I love IndyCar. I know I’ll come back one day. But right now, this is about the dream I’ve had since I was a kid. Formula 1 is where I’ve always wanted to be. I can’t live with the thought of not trying.”
—Colton Herta, Racing Driver
The shift to Formula 2 is more than a career tactic; it is an emblem of Herta’s unwavering focus on reaching the pinnacle of racing, illustrating that sometimes pursuing one’s dreams demands stepping into uncertainty to make a lasting impact.
