Colton Herta Bio
Colton Thomas Herta (born March 30, 2000) is an American racing driver who is set to compete in the FIA Formula 2 Championship for Hitech TGR with support from Cadillac. Herta competed in the IndyCar Series from 2018 to 2025, and he is known for being the youngest person ever to win an IndyCar Series race. Herta is the son of former IndyCar and Champ Car driver Bryan Herta.
Early Life and Background
Colton Herta was born in Santa Clarita, California, United States. He began karting at the age of six, which laid the foundation for his future in motorsports. Herta made his competitive karting debut in 2010 at the age of ten, racing in the SKUSA and IKF series. His early exposure to racing helped him develop the skills necessary for a successful career in motorsports. Herta made his single-seater racing debut at the age of thirteen, finishing second in the SBF2000 Winter Series. His passion for racing was evident from a young age, and he quickly progressed through the ranks of motorsport.
Path to Motorsports
In 2014, Herta made his professional racing debut in the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship Powered by Mazda, finishing fifteenth in the championship despite missing the opening weekend due to age requirements. He also made his international formula racing debut at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, where he secured one race win and three podium finishes. Herta’s career continued to flourish as he moved to the UK-based MSA Formula series in 2015, where he became the youngest driver and the only American on a grid dominated by British competitors. He achieved his first win at Snetterton Circuit and finished third overall in the championship. In 2016, he switched to the Euroformula Open Championship, finishing third in points with four victories and five pole positions.
Colton Herta Career
Early Career (2018)
Colton Herta made his IndyCar Series debut at the season finale in Sonoma in September 2018, driving for Harding Racing. His first notable work in the series was marked by a strong performance, and he quickly became a rising star in the sport.
Breakthrough (2019-2025)
Herta’s breakthrough moment came on March 24, 2019, when he won the IndyCar Classic at Circuit of the Americas, making him the youngest-ever winner in IndyCar history at the age of eighteen. He continued to impress throughout the 2019 season, securing multiple wins and podium finishes. Herta’s notable achievements during this period included becoming the youngest pole-sitter at Road America and finishing seventh in the overall standings. In 2024, Herta won the Music City Grand Prix, further solidifying his reputation as a top competitor in the IndyCar Series. His performance throughout the years has earned him recognition and respect within the motorsports community.
Notable Works and Milestones
Colton Herta’s signature work includes his historic win at the IndyCar Classic and his continued success in the IndyCar Series. He has achieved a total of nine wins and nineteen podiums in his IndyCar career, showcasing his talent and determination as a race car driver.
Colton Herta Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Colton Herta has received several nominations for his outstanding performances in racing. His achievements have made him a prominent figure in the motorsports industry.
Colton Herta Awards Won
Colton Herta has won notable awards, including the Pacific Formula F1600 Champion title in 2013. His accomplishments in racing have established him as a talented driver with a promising future.
Colton Herta Family
Colton Herta is the son of Bryan Herta, a former IndyCar and Champ Car driver. His family background in racing has played a significant role in shaping his career and passion for motorsports.
Personal Life
Outside of racing, Colton Herta is a member of the indie punk rock band The Zibs, where he plays the drums. He formed the band in 2018 with his high school friends, showcasing his diverse interests beyond the racetrack.
