New Cadillac test driver Colton Herta has officially announced his departure from IndyCar to transition to the Formula 2 grid next season. This move is driven by Herta’s pursuit of the necessary FIA superlicence points required to compete in Formula 1 in the future.
Herta’s association with the Cadillac project, initially part of Andretti Global’s F1 expansion initiative, has been long-standing. Andretti Global, under TWG Motorsports ownership, also manages the Cadillac F1 team, slated to become the sport’s 11th team starting next year.
Recent developments reveal the signing of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as the primary racing drivers for Cadillac, with Herta securing the role of the official test driver. Despite his lower standings in the IndyCar championship this season, Herta’s appointment aims to facilitate his superlicence acquisition for future F1 ventures.
Cadillac’s preference for an American driver has positioned Herta as the top contender for the role. To support his superlicence pursuit, arrangements have been made for Herta to join the Formula 2 grid in the upcoming season.
TWG’s CEO, Dan Towriss, expressed enthusiasm for Herta’s career progression, emphasizing the significant leap from IndyCar to F2. The shift entails a learning curve involving track familiarity and tire dynamics distinct from Herta’s IndyCar experience.
FIA’s current points allocation system favors drivers competing in F2 for accumulating superlicence points over IndyCar, despite the latter’s prominence in North American single-seater racing.
Herta’s F1 aspirations faced a setback in 2022 when a special exemption request by Red Bull for his immediate F1 entry was denied by the FIA due to the superlicence requirement.
Towriss hinted at potential opportunities for Herta in the 2027 season, contingent on his F2 performance. The CEO emphasized Herta’s need to earn his place in F1 through merit and highlighted the boldness of his career decisions.
Herta’s unconventional career move as a test driver followed Mick Schumacher’s rejection of a similar role. Schumacher opted for a different path, potentially aligning with McLaren’s plans for the World Endurance Championship from 2027.
The upcoming F1 season promises exciting action for fans, with live coverage available through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering substantial savings and additional benefits like access to Netflix and Discovery+.
Herta’s strategic career choices reflect a commitment to growth and readiness to embrace challenges, setting the stage for a significant opportunity in his racing career.