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American IndyCar driver Colton Herta is making a big move. He’s joining Hitech TGR for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship, a major step toward his dream of racing in Formula 1. The 25-year-old Californian is currently a reserve driver for Cadillac’s F1 program. He’s using the F2 season to earn the 40 Super License points needed for F1. His decision comes after a huge 2024 IndyCar season, where he won nine races and finished second overall. “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Hitech for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 season,” said Herta. “This is a big shift in my career, and I’m ready for the challenge. I’ve loved my time in IndyCar and I’m proud of everything I achieved, but the opportunity to race in F2, to compete on the Formula 1 calendar, against some of the best young drivers in the world, was one I couldn’t pass up.” Hitech TGR and Toyota Gazoo Racing Back Herta’s F2 Push Hitech TGR is based in Silverstone, England, and works closely with Toyota Gazoo Racing. The team chose Herta for his skill, experience, and consistency. He’s spent seven years in IndyCar, earning 19 podium finishes. His move to F2 also fits with Cadillac’s F1 plan, which aims to join the grid in 2028. “I’ve always worked to keep the door to F1 open, and this move is part of that ultimate ambition,” Herta continued. “I know it won’t be easy, learning the car, the tyres, the tracks, but I’m approaching this with determination, focus, and a lot of motivation. My goal is to compete at the front, continue developing as a driver, and put myself in the best possible position for a future in Formula 1.” “Hitech has an excellent reputation and a proven track record, and I’m confident it’s the right environment for me to develop and perform. I want to thank them for believing in me and providing the platform to make this step.” Hitech TGR Team Manager Clive Hatton shared his excitement, too. “We’re delighted to welcome Colton to the team for the 2026 Formula 2 season,” Hatton said. “He already brings a level of experience, professionalism, and talent that we’re typically used to nurturing in drivers as they progress through the junior categories. “This is an exciting step for Colton, but also a challenging one. He’s stepping into a new racing environment that has very different formats, with high expectations, and a clear goal of progressing to F1. But his determination and commitment are impressive, and we’re delighted to help maximise his potential during the 2026 season.” From IndyCar to F2: Colton Herta’s Bold Transition Moving from IndyCar to Formula 2 is unusual. But for Herta, it makes sense. He’s used to fast ovals, street races, and road tracks. Now he’ll face F2 circuits like Monaco, Spa, and Silverstone. He’ll have to learn new tires, new rules, and a new car style. But his past experience shows he can adapt quickly. The Toyota partnership gives Herta strong technical support. Hitech has helped many young racers grow into top drivers. The team believes Herta’s skill and mindset will make him competitive from the start. Cadillac’s F1 Vision and Herta’s American Dream Cadillac’s Formula 1 project, backed by General Motors, is moving forward fast. Herta’s part in the program connects his F2 effort to a bigger goal, a future F1 seat. His 2026 F2 season will help him earn more Super License points and prove his readiness for F1 before Cadillac’s debut in 2028. This move also highlights the growing American presence in Formula racing. With Logan Sargeant in F1 and Haas representing the U.S. as a constructor, Herta’s arrival could mark another big step for American motorsport. If he performs well in F2, Colton Herta could become the next American in Formula 1 — the one who bridges the gap between IndyCar success and F1 stardom.
