Pato O'Ward: Colton Herta's F2 Move Signals 2027 F1 Seat Offer

IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward believes Colton Herta's move to Formula 2, coupled with a test driver role for the Cadillac F1 Team, strongly indicates a guaranteed Formula 1 seat for Herta in 2027. O'Ward suggests Herta wouldn't undertake such a significant career shift without a concrete F1 offer on the table.

Why it matters:

Colton Herta's high-stakes gamble to secure an F1 superlicence through Formula 2 carries the weight of an entire racing series, with IndyCar drivers, including O'Ward, keenly watching his progress. His potential success could pave the way for other American talents and IndyCar stars to transition into Formula 1, while a failure would reinforce past narratives about the difficulty of such a leap.

The Details:

• Herta's Dual Role: Colton Herta has signed a test driver agreement with the Cadillac F1 Team and will compete in Formula 2 with Hitech to accumulate the necessary superlicence points.
• O'Ward's Conviction: Pato O'Ward expressed his belief that Herta wouldn't make this move "just to do it," implying a significant F1 opportunity is awaiting him in 2027.
• IndyCar Representation: O'Ward highlighted the importance of Herta's success, stating he will be "our IndyCar representation" and many are pushing for him to do well.
• The Challenge: O'Ward acknowledged the difficulty of the transition, noting that F2 cars are "much worse than an Indy car" in terms of capabilities and feel, presenting a "downgrade" for Herta.
• Cadillac's Perspective: Cadillac F1 Team CEO Dan Towriss emphasized the "huge risk" Herta is taking, stating, "no seat is guaranteed." However, he believes Herta is a "special talent" who can "find speed where others can't."
• Building a Foundation: Towriss explained the move is intended for Herta to "learn tracks and tyres and show that respect to European open-wheel racing," building a "body of work" rather than relying on an "entitlement model" that hasn't worked for US drivers in the past.
• Past F1 Interest: Herta has previously impressed in tests and simulator sessions with teams like McLaren, Alpine, Red Bull, and Sauber, indicating a recognized F1 potential.

What's next:

Herta faces the immense pressure of performing in F2, a championship he needs to conquer to secure his superlicence. His performance next season will be under intense scrutiny, not just from the Cadillac F1 Team, but from the entire IndyCar paddock, as he attempts to open the door for a new generation of American talent in Formula 1.