Colton Herta surprises with an unusual career step: the 25-year-old American will switch to Formula 2 in 2026. The current IndyCar pilot is supported by Cadillac, which will start with its own Formula 1 team from 2026. Herta should recommend itself in the youth series for a possible regular cockpit.
“Everyone has seen how close I was in Formula 1 in the past,” said Herta in the podcast “Off Track With Hinch and Rossi”. “I think that’s my best chance to finally make it.”
Herta has been one of the most successful drivers in the IndyCar series for years. He celebrated his first victory at the age of 18 and collected a total of nine racing wins. In 2020 he finished third in the overall ranking, and in 2024 he finished second. Nevertheless, he now takes the risk of switching to a series of young people to move closer to Formula 1.
The step has dangers, as the example of Ritomo Miyata shows. The Japanese Toyota junior and Super-GT and Super-Formula champion from 2023 dared to jump into Formula 2 in 2024, but has not yet been convincing there. In his debut season he was only 19 in the overall ranking, even in 2025 it was not much better for him.
Herta is aware of the risks: “It was an incredibly difficult decision because I know exactly what I left in Indycar. There I have a great team, an extremely competitive series and the chance of driving every weekend. In Formula 1 you also need the right car. Nevertheless, I have decided to take the risk.”
Goal: F1 cockpit at Cadillac 2027
Herta’s change is closely related to his role at Cadillac. The US manufacturer joined Formula 1 in 2026 and has already signed Herta as a test and development driver. With a strong Formula 2 season, he would like to recommend a possible regular cockpit. In addition, he can get to know many of the previously unknown routes in Europe and the Middle East.
The hurdle of the FIA super license should no longer play a role. Herta currently has 34 points from the past Indycar season and only needs a placement in the top 8 Formula 2 to achieve the required 40 points.
“As a racing driver, you are constantly relating to yourself,” said Herta. “I believe in myself and that I am fast enough. Of course it will be a lot of work to understand the difference between Indycar and Formula 1, but I am ready to do everything for it.”
Indy 500 remains an option
Although Herta 2026 focuses on Formula 2, a one -time start on the Indy 500 could be possible. Since the race does not collide with the Formula 2 calendar, he does not exclude a guest appearance: “If it makes sense, I am open to it, but it must not distract myself from my main goal, namely to get into Formula 1 with Cadillac.”
Herta considers a return to the Indycar series in the long term as likely: “This is not a final farewell. I love Indycar and definitely see myself going there again at some point.”