Is Formula One a gambling affair for Colton Herta?
After a successful 116 starts and nine wins in the IndyCar series, Colton Herta is taking an unconventional path by moving to Formula 1. The American racer has been announced as the reserve driver for Cadillac's Formula 1 team for the 2026 season.
Herta's move to Formula 1 was not an easy one. In the past, Toro Rosso expressed interest in signing him, but the lack of a Super License prevented the move. Now, Herta plans to collect the necessary points for the license in the upcoming season, racing in Formula 2.
Herta will represent the Italian junior team Andretti Global in the 2026 Formula 2 season. However, he will race with the Italian junior team Prema instead, as confirmed recently. This will give him the opportunity to learn European tracks and gain experience with sensitive Pirelli tires.
Dan Towriss, the CEO of the team, admits that Herta's move is a risk due to the experienced drivers already in place. But he expresses confidence that Herta will get his chance, but will have to earn it in Formula 1.
Herta's journey to Formula 1 is not entirely new. He has had occasional talks with Formula 1 teams in the past, but this is his first official connection to the top class. In fact, Herta tested an older Formula 1 car under McLaren in the past.
The Andretti project, which eventually became Cadillac's factory entry with its own team, failed when Herta was set for one of the main seats in 2021 during the negotiation of the purchase of the Sauber team. Despite this setback, Herta will step in as needed in case of an emergency for the Cadillac Formula 1 team.
Herta finished seventh in the driver standings this season in the IndyCar series. As he leaves the IndyCar series to join Formula 1, he will have to adapt to life outside the US. But with his determination and skill, Herta is ready for the challenge.
The FIA rejected the application for an exception for Herta to join Toro Rosso. However, with his new role as a reserve driver for Cadillac, Herta is making another attempt to join Formula 1. Towriss, the CEO of the team, believes that Herta's talent and dedication will lead him to success in the top class.
