Mexican racing driver Pato O’Ward has spoken candidly about Colton Herta‘s upcoming move to the F2 grid in 2026, voicing concerns about the risks involved for the American driver and the potential consequences for the IndyCar series. Herta’s shift to the Formula 2 feeder series, instead of the more typical route of F2 or F1 drivers transitioning to IndyCar, marks a significant reversal and places both Herta and the American open-wheel scene under close scrutiny.
Background: Superlicence Setback Redirects Herta to F2
Colton Herta, recently in consideration for a Cadillac F1 seat, found himself falling short of the required superlicence points needed to compete in Formula 1 by 2026. As a result, Herta signed on as Cadillac’s reserve driver and will pursue a full-time role in Formula 2 to build his credentials. This unusual move has sparked a wave of debate throughout the open-wheel racing world, as most transitions run from F2 or F1 into IndyCar, not the other way around. Notably, figures like Romain Grosjean, Robert Shwartzman, and Marcus Ericsson have all journeyed from F1 or F2 into the American series, making Herta’s path a rare case.
Pato O’Ward Cautions About the Road Ahead
Pato O’Ward, himself an Arrow McLaren standout in IndyCar, not only commented on Herta’s bold decision but also addressed the technical and cultural hurdles that might await the former Andretti driver. O’Ward pointed out that the nuances of Formula 2—such as adapting to the unique Pirelli tires and learning new machinery—represent a steep challenge even for a seasoned competitor. According to O’Ward, Herta may be under particular pressure given the presence of critics eager to point out any missteps during this high-profile transition.
“I really hope he’s (Herta) got the tools in order to showcase himself because a lot of that is down to the car he’s given by his team. He’s very talented, but it won’t automatically fall into his hands. You’re up against guys that have been there for many years, that know how everything works with much more experience over there. There’s a steep learning curve that he’s going to have to go through,”
said Pato O’Ward.
“It’s a very different driving style and it takes time to adapt. It’s not just a flick of a switch, and like, ‘Hey, I’m going to be instantly competitive.’ If it doesn’t go well, there’s always going to be those guys that hook to that and use that as rage bait. So that’s the reality,”
added Pato O’Ward.
Potential Ramifications for IndyCar’s Reputation
O’Ward also reflected on how Herta’s performance in F2 could shape perceptions of American open-wheel racing on a broader scale. IndyCar, long seen as a destination for drivers coming from Europe, now has a driver moving in the opposite direction. O’Ward expressed the hope that Herta’s adaptation and potential success in F2 would be seen as a validation for IndyCar’s competitiveness and quality of talent, especially among those unfamiliar with or critical of the American series.
“I think it’s for us to support his decision and to wish him the best for the sake of showing well for us. Because he is the first one that’s going to make the move like he’s doing from IndyCar going to F2. And we want that to be good, because it would only help the situation, maybe with people that don’t have a lot of good things to say about IndyCar. Colton doing well would be a win for IndyCar,”
said Pato O’Ward.
Evolving FIA Superlicence Rules Open New Doors
The FIA has recently revised the superlicence points system to better accommodate drivers from IndyCar, potentially making it easier for talented American racers to move up to Formula 1. This change could make transitions like Herta’s less rare in the future, increasing opportunities for IndyCar drivers with international ambitions and further entwining the worlds of European and American open-wheel racing. As fans and series stakeholders observe Herta’s progress, the spotlight will remain on both his personal journey and the evolving relationship between IndyCar, Formula 2, and Formula 1.
What Lies Ahead for Herta and IndyCar
Colton Herta faces a formidable test as he prepares to compete full-time in F2, with his every move likely to be scrutinized by supporters and critics alike. The impact of his performance will not be limited to his personal career, but could influence perceptions of the IndyCar series, the potential pipeline for its drivers, and the broader competitive landscape between American and European open-wheel racing. The racing community will be watching closely as Herta seeks to prove himself, mindful of both the opportunity and risk his Colton Herta F2 transition represents for all involved.
