American driver Colton Herta will take an unusual step in his career by competing in Formula 2 in 2026, with the aim of reaching Formula 1.
Herta, winner of multiple IndyCar races and runner-up in the series in 2024, is already contracted as a Cadillac test driver for 2026, but has always had ambitions to reach F1.
To gain experience, he will compete next season for the Hitech team in the main F1 development series.
Pilots like George Russell, Isack Hadjar, Liam Lawson, and Jack Doohan have passed through Hitech on their way to F1.
Formula 2 uses cars that resemble those of the F1 teams, competes on the same circuits as the F1 calendar, and uses Pirelli tires with similar characteristics.
This is an unusual decision for a driver with the experience of Herta, 25, but it underlines the work he is doing to ensure he is ready for an opportunity in F1 in the future.
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. An eighth place or higher in the championship would automatically push 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 her duties as a 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 racing operations, ensuring that each weekend contributes to its long-term growth within Cadillac’s Formula 1 operation.”I am incredibly excited to officially join F2 for the 2026 Formula 2 season. 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. Competing on the same weekends as Formula 1 will give me first-hand experience in that environment and help me grow as part of the Cadillac F1 family.
Colton Herta
