Colton Herta makes the jump to Formula 2 in 2026
American driver Colton Herta will make an unusual decision by competing in Formula 2 in 2026, a development series with the goal of reaching Formula 1. Herta, winner of multiple IndyCar races and runner-up in the series in 2024, is already signed as a Cadillac test driver for 2026, but has long had ambitions to reach F1. With the aim of gaining experience, he will compete next season for the Hitech team in the main development series of F1. Pilots like George Russell, Isack Hadjar, Liam Lawson, and Jack Doohan have passed through Hitech on their way to F1. The F2 uses cars that resemble those of the F1 teams. It uses the same circuits as the F1 calendar and features Pirelli tires with similar characteristics. It’s an unusual decision for a driver with the experience of Herta, 25 years old, but it underlines the work being done to ensure he is ready for an opportunity in F1 in the future.
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“I am incredibly excited to officially join F2 for the 2026 season,” Herta said.“This is an incredible opportunity to develop my skills in European racing and measure myself against some of the best young drivers in the world. Racing on the same weekends as Formula 1 will give me first-hand experience of that environment and help me grow as part of the Cadillac F1 family.”
Colton Herta
The FIA’s super license points system has made it difficult for Herta to enter Formula 1 in recent years; points are obtained through success in various FIA championships, although they are all weighted very differently. He only has 35 points when a minimum of 40 is required to be eligible for a race seat. A finish in eighth place or higher in the championship would automatically boost him, although he can earn a point if he competes in a Friday practice session for Cadillac next season, he would be eligible to appear twice during the season. In 2026, he will play a complementary role to drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez. The announcement on Tuesday added: “Throughout the campaign, Herta will continue with his duties as Test Driver for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, contributing to the team’s development program both in the simulator and at selected Grand Prix.” “The close alignment of F2 and F1 schedules will allow for seamless integration with Cadillac’s engineering and race operations, ensuring that each weekend contributes to its long-term growth within Cadillac’s Formula 1 operation.”“I am very grateful to Cadillac and Hitech for their trust and support and I can’t wait to get started.”
Colton Herta
