Andretti Global driver Colton Herta ended a 41-race winless streak at the 2024 Toronto Grand Prix, securing a commanding victory on Canadian soil. Starting from pole position in his Honda-powered #26 car, the 25-year-old American led 81 of the 85 laps, showcasing control and speed throughout the weekend.
This triumph marked Herta’s eighth career IndyCar win and the first Andretti Global 1-2 finish since the team’s rebranding in 2023, with teammate Kyle Kirkwood finishing just 0.3469 seconds behind. The outstanding performance also included Herta setting the fastest laps in every practice session during the event.
Reflecting on the Season: Herta Discusses Challenges as Teammate Shines
Despite a strong 2024 season with 513 points and a runner-up finish in the previous year’s championship, Herta has faced difficulties this season, currently ninth in the standings with 244 points. Meanwhile, his teammate Kyle Kirkwood has excelled, boasting three wins and mounting pressure on championship leader Alex Palou.
Speaking before the XPEL Grand Prix at Road America, Herta candidly addressed his struggles and Kirkwood’s success.
“Yeah, I mean it’s unfortunate for us, but if it’s not me that is winning, you want a teammate to win. You want somebody to take points out of Palou, which is the main thing. It’s good to know that the team is winning, and that makes everybody happy and excited around the shop. But for me, you know, I need to start winning.” —Colton Herta, Andretti Global driver
At the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix on June 1, Herta showed promise by qualifying on pole but was hindered after a post-pit-stop collision caused by Nolan Siegel of Arrow McLaren. The contact disrupted Herta’s race, allowing Kirkwood to seize the lead and eventually win.
Significance of the Toronto Win and Prospects Ahead
Colton Herta’s dominant performance in Toronto not only ended a long personal drought but also reinforced Andretti Global’s competitiveness in the 2024 IndyCar season. The emotional victory reflects the team’s determination for perfection and their capacity to challenge top contenders like Alex Palou. Herta’s success could serve as a turning point as he looks to regain momentum and close the gap in the championship battle.
With both Herta and Kirkwood performing strongly, Andretti Global is positioned as a formidable force in upcoming races, setting the stage for an intense fight in the final stretch of the season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why isn’t Colton Herta in F1?
A. IndyCar driver Herta has been considered for a switch to Formula 1. Helmut Marko wanted him in AlphaTauri by mid-2022. However, the FIA did not approve his super licence because Herta did not have the necessary 40 points.
Q. Is Colton Herta good enough for F1?
A. Colton Herta has the skills to compete in Formula 1. Since the start, the team has viewed Colton as a key driver, confirmed 1978 world champion Mario Andretti.
