Colton Herta Calls F2 Move His 'Last Shot at F1'

American racer Colton Herta has made a dramatic career switch to Formula 2 with Hitech for the 2026 season, explicitly calling it his “last shot at F1.” This move is pivotal for the former IndyCar driver, who aims to secure a super license and impress Cadillac, signaling a focused bid for a full-time F1 seat.

Why it matters:

Herta's pursuit of an F1 drive represents a significant narrative for American talent in the sport. His previous attempt to join F1 was denied due to super license regulations, making this F2 stint a make-or-break opportunity. For Cadillac, a prominent American automotive brand entering F1, having an American driver of Herta's caliber could be a huge marketing and performance asset, aligning with their ambitions to establish a strong presence on the grid.

The Details:

• F2 with Hitech: Herta will join Hitech in Formula 2 for the 2026 season, a critical step towards accumulating the necessary super license points.
• Cadillac Development Role: Concurrently with his F2 commitments, Herta will serve as a development driver for Cadillac during their inaugural F1 season.
• Super License Pursuit: A primary goal for Herta is to secure the super license required to compete in Formula 1, a hurdle that previously blocked his entry.
• Age Factor: At 25, Herta acknowledges that this is likely his final opportunity to make the leap to F1, given the typical career trajectories in the sport.
• Learning Focus: Herta's immediate objective in F2 is to familiarize himself with the F1 tracks and the unique characteristics of Pirelli tires, essential knowledge for a test and development driver.
• No Explicit Performance Expectations: Herta highlighted that Hitech and Cadillac have not set specific performance targets, emphasizing the learning and development aspect of his role.

Between the lines:

Herta's direct admission of this being his 'last shot' underscores the intense pressure and high stakes involved in breaking into Formula 1. His candidness reflects the slim margins for error and the competitive nature of the F1 ladder. For Cadillac, investing in Herta as a development driver while he competes in F2 demonstrates a strategic, long-term approach to fostering talent and integrating an American presence into their F1 project. This move also signifies a shift in how teams might cultivate potential F1 drivers, integrating them into the development process early on, even before a full F1 seat is guaranteed.

What's next:

The 2026 season will be crucial for Herta. His performance in Formula 2 will be under intense scrutiny, not only for super license points but also to demonstrate his adaptability and speed in a European-based single-seater series. Successfully integrating into Cadillac's development program and providing valuable feedback will further cement his value to the team. If he can excel in both roles, Herta stands a strong chance of realizing his F1 dream.