Source: Official Team Post via X
Colton Herta Faces Challenges in F2, Uncertain Cadillac Future
Cadillac F1 test driver Colton Herta has found his first season in Formula 2 more challenging than expected, with series CEO Bruno Michel noting the difficulties of adapting from IndyCar. As Herta's future with Cadillac remains uncertain, Michel hopes for a strong finish to the F2 season.
Colton Herta's debut season in Formula 2 has not quite gone according to plan, leaving both the driver and series CEO Bruno Michel reflecting on the challenges faced. Herta, who joined the F2 grid after leaving a successful IndyCar career, sits 19th in the championship standings without a podium finish to his name. Michel acknowledged that the transition has been more difficult than anticipated, suggesting that both Herta and the series may have underestimated the shift in working environment from IndyCar.
Herta signed with Cadillac as a test driver in pursuit of his Formula 1 aspirations, making the leap to Formula 2 with Hitech in 2026. His season has been marked by struggles, particularly in qualifying, where the limited track time demands immediate performance. Michel pointed out that this aspect of F2 is essential for preparing drivers for the similarly restricted track time in Formula 1. Despite these hurdles, Michel remains hopeful that Herta can end the season on a high note, believing he deserves to do so.
The 26-year-old American has participated in several FP1 sessions with Cadillac this year, with one more on the agenda, but his future remains uncertain. Falling short of the FIA Super Licence points and the top 10 finish target set by Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss, Herta's path to F1 isn't straightforward. Although he hasn't ruled out a second season in F2, Herta has expressed that it isn't his primary goal.
Herta isn't alone in his non-traditional route to F2. His teammate, Ritomo Miyata, arrived from the world of GT and endurance racing, and Nicolas Varrone also made the switch from endurance racing to F2. Michel sees the inclusion of drivers from varied backgrounds as a positive development, even if the transition can be challenging.
"It’s important to have drivers from different routes," Michel commented, emphasizing the benefits of diverse experiences. While the typical path follows the FIA pyramid from Formula 4 to Formula 2, exceptions exist, such as Kimi Antonelli, who skipped Formula 3. Michel regards Herta's move from IndyCar as a bold and interesting step, highlighting his success in the American series and the significant change he embraced by joining F2.
With two rounds remaining in the 2026 F2 season, the series is set to wrap up alongside Formula 1 in the Middle East. All eyes will be on Herta to see if he can turn his challenging season around in the final races.