Andretti Global driver Colton Herta, currently competing in IndyCar, has responded to rumors that he may leave the series in 2026 to race in Formula 2 (F2), the key stepping stone to Formula 1 (F1). At 25 years old, Herta is pursuing his F1 aspirations but faces challenges due to insufficient FIA super license points, which are crucial for F1 eligibility.
The FIA awards more super license points to drivers competing in its sanctioned series, such as the Formula racing ladder from F4 through F1, than it does to those participating in non-FIA series like IndyCar. Moving to F2 could significantly enhance Herta’s chances of meeting the required points to secure an F1 seat.
Before the August 23-24 IndyCar Milwaukee Mile 250 race weekend, Herta addressed these rumors directly:
“I’ve heard those rumors, too. That’s all it is right now, is rumors.”
—Colton Herta, Andretti Global driver
To race in F1, a driver needs 40 points on their super license, which are accumulated over the three seasons before entering the series. Herta scored one point for his 10th-place finish in the 2023 IndyCar standings and 30 points for placing second in 2024. To qualify for an F1 spot in 2026 based solely on IndyCar results, he needed to earn nine more points in the 2025 season by finishing at least fourth in the standings or fifth combined with completing 100 kilometers in an F1 practice session.
Impact of IndyCar Standings and Cadillac’s Driver Lineup on Herta’s F1 Prospects
Although Herta was considered the primary candidate to drive for Cadillac, backed by Andretti Global, in 2026, current developments have undercut his chances. He currently stands eighth in the 2025 IndyCar points with two races remaining, making it unlikely he will reach the necessary points threshold. Furthermore, Cadillac reportedly signed Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for the 2026 season, which reportedly closes the door on Herta’s opportunity with their team.
This continuing scenario has fueled speculation that he might switch to F2 next year to accumulate the required points. Such a move is seen as a strategic alternative amid uncertainty about his standing in IndyCar and F1 prospects.
Andretti Global Leadership Comments on Herta’s Future Options
Dan Towriss, head of Andretti Global and manager of the Cadillac F1 team under TWG Motorsports, expressed full support for Herta’s ambitions, whatever path he chooses. Towriss highlighted Herta’s exceptional skill and emphasized the team’s desire to help showcase his talent at the highest level possible.
“From my standpoint, I’m happy for Colton to race wherever he wants to race, and if he’s at a place where (F1) is on the table, I think his talent is tremendous. He’s just a generational talent, and we want to showcase it,”
—Dan Towriss, Andretti Global boss
Herta’s status as IndyCar’s youngest-ever race winner and his F1 testing experience in July 2022 have further underscored his potential as a future F1 driver. During his test, he drove McLaren’s MCL35M car at the Portimao circuit, completing 162 laps over two days, a performance that earned praise from Andrea Stella, now McLaren’s team principal.
His skills also impressed Mario Andretti, director of the Cadillac F1 operation. Herta raced alongside current F1 competitor Lando Norris in Europe’s Formula youth categories, showing early promise on the international scene.
The Road Ahead for Colton Herta’s Racing Career
With Herta’s path to F1 via super license points blocked by inconsistent IndyCar results and limited opportunities with Cadillac, the possibility of competing in F2 remains a topic of speculation. Pursuing F2 would allow him to earn the points necessary for an F1 license, but would also mean stepping away from IndyCar, where he has established himself as a strong competitor.
As the 2025 IndyCar season enters its final stages, Herta’s results will be crucial in determining his immediate future. Meanwhile, Andretti Global and its leadership remain committed to supporting his development, whether he continues in IndyCar, transitions to F2, or finds another route toward the pinnacle of motorsport.
