Source: Official Team Post via X
Colton Herta Eyes Indy 500 Return Amid Uncertain Cadillac F1 Plans
Colton Herta, currently uncertain about his 2027 racing schedule, is eager to return to the Indy 500 after missing out in 2026. Despite a challenging F2 season, Herta remains focused on future opportunities, including his role with Cadillac.
Colton Herta's racing calendar for 2027 remains a mystery, but one thing is clear: the American driver is determined to make his way back to the Indianapolis 500. After his 2026 plans to participate in the iconic race fell through, Herta has expressed a strong desire to compete in the event again. Despite joining Formula 2 in a bid to edge closer to a Formula 1 seat, Herta's season has not been smooth sailing.
Herta, who signed with Hitech and is scheduled for four FP1 sessions with Cadillac before the year's end, has had a tough time in F2. Currently sitting 19th in the championship, he has yet to score a podium with only two rounds left in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
His pursuit of an FIA Super Licence has also hit a snag, leaving his 2027 racing opportunities uncertain. However, Herta is unwavering in his ambition to return to the Indy 500. The California native had to forgo the 2026 race due to a clash with the F2 calendar, which included new stops in Miami and Canada.
Herta confirmed his intentions to Motorsport.com, saying, "I always want to do the Indy 500. It was a shame this year that I couldn’t do it. It was all set up." The revised F2 schedule, which brought the series to Canada for the first time, disrupted his plans.
In addition to his commitments with Cadillac, Herta has participated in select IMSA SportsCar Championship endurance races with Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing, finding success at Petit Le Mans. He hopes to continue these endurance efforts if his schedule allows.
Formula 2 CEO Bruno Michel has acknowledged Herta's struggles in adapting to the series, noting the differences in working environments compared to IndyCar teams. "Colton is a very strong driver," Michel remarked, expressing hope that Herta would finish the season on a high note. Michel highlighted the challenge of F2's limited track time, which prepares drivers for similar conditions in Formula 1, as a factor in Herta's adaptation difficulties.
As Herta navigates these challenges, his focus remains on future opportunities, including the tantalizing prospect of returning to the Indy 500. Whether he finds himself back on the iconic oval or in a different racing series, Herta's passion for motorsport remains undeterred.