If the American Colton Herta was already expected at Hitech TGR in Formula 2, his arrival has now been confirmed. To force the doors of the Formula 1, the nine-time winner in IndyCar takes risks by leaving the category that propelled him into the spotlight.
Recruited as a test driver for the new F1 team, the Californian is putting all the odds in his favor to achieve his dream. Cadillac joins the grid as the eleventh team in the paddock and harbors the ambition, eventually, to field an American driver in its ranks, a role that Colton Herta hopes to fulfill. To accumulate the necessary Super Licence points and aim for the premier class, Colton Herta is banking on Formula 2.
The youngest IndyCar winner will still have to adapt to Pirelli tires, the Drag Reduction System (DRS), and the format of the weekends supporting F1. In the F1 antechamber, Colton Herta will also return to the European continent, where he has already competed in British F4 and Euroformula Open.
Formula 1 or nothing… except Formula 2
« I am extremely excited to be joining Hitech for the 2026 Formula 2 season, Colton Herta said. This is a huge turning point in my career, and I'm ready for the challenge. I loved my time in IndyCar and am proud of everything I achieved there, but the opportunity to race in F2 – to compete on the Formula 1 calendar, competing against some of the best young drivers in the world – was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. »
The future F2 driver recalls his primary objective: Formula 1. I have always worked to keep the door to F1 open, and this choice is part of that ultimate ambition. I know it won't be easy, nevertheless recognizes the son of Bryan Herta. Learning the car, the tires, the circuits – but I'm approaching this stage with determination, focus, and a lot of motivation. My goal is to fight at the front, continue to improve as a driver, and put myself in the best possible position for a future in Formula 1. »
Currently second in the Constructors' standings, with a driver provisionally on the third step of the podium, Hitech TGR offers an ideal setting for a debut in the championship.Hitech has an excellent reputation and a proven track record, and I am confident that this is the right environment for me to progress and perform, assured the Californian. I want to thank them for believing in me and giving me the platform to take this step. »
Clive Hatton, director of the Hitech Formula 2 team, is also looking forward to this future collaboration with the native of Valencia (United States). We are delighted to welcome Colton to the team for the 2026 Formula 2 season. He already brings a level of experience, professionalism and talent that we are used to developing in drivers as they progress through the junior categories. »
Although the start will not be easy, Clive Hatton congratulates his new driver on his motivation. This is an exciting step for Colton, but also a challenge. He is entering a new racing environment with very different formats, high expectations, and a clear objective: to progress to F1. But his determination and commitment are impressive, and we are delighted to support him to maximize his potential during the 2026 season. »
ALSO READ > Why is Colton Herta playing his career in F2?
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Alain Féguenne (Luxembourg)
21/10/2025 at 01:43 a.m.
There I have to admit... I don't understand... F2...? Such a champion... 🤨👀 He has more to lose... than to gain... 😎👀🤨
Yves-Henri RANDIER
21/10/2025 at 01:33 a.m.
It's interesting to see how a pure 100% Yankee product will fare against young "100% European" wolves who are ready to do anything to make a place for themselves in F1!