Colton Herta: Formula 1 future uncertain, Indy 500 on his wish list

Colton Herta competed in the IndyCar Series for seven years, finishing third overall in 2020 and even finishing the 2024 season in second place overall. He claimed a total of nine victories in the American formula series before taking on a new challenge this year.

Herta entered the Formula 2 series; the experienced racing driver did so to secure enough points for the Super Licence, which acts as a Formula 1 driving licence and is essential for competing in the premier four-wheeled class. However, the plan failed; Herta never really got into his stride and, with two rounds remaining in the championship, sits in a disappointing 19th place overall.

The 26-year-old’s dream of a Formula 1 promotion has thus receded into the distant future. He had even sacrificed his Indy 500 entry because the Formula 2 calendar did not allow for it this year. When asked by colleagues at ‘Motorsport.com’ whether he would consider taking part in the famous oval race next year, his answer was clear: “Of course, I would never turn down the Indy 500.”

“I’d always like to compete in that race and it’s a real shame it wasn’t possible this year. Everything was all set. But the revised Formula 2 calendar turned everything on its head. It should have happened, but unfortunately things turned out differently,” sighed the Californian.

Colton Herta: Formula 1 dream not yet buried

Next year, however, the iconic race in Indianapolis is on his wish list. Herta cannot yet say exactly what the future holds, though. “I don’t know yet what next year will look like for me. But if I get the chance, I’d certainly love to compete in the Indy 500.”

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Alongside his Formula 2 appearances, Herta has also completed three FP1 sessions this year for the Cadillac team, for whom he works as a test and development driver. A fourth session is scheduled to take place before the end of the year. He has also competed in several endurance races, including at Daytona, Sebring and the Petit Le Mans. The American would be reluctant to miss out on these next year either.

It is not yet clear whether, following a disappointing season, he will be able to continue pursuing his dream of a Formula 1 promotion. Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss had expected his protégé to finish in the top 10 overall. One thing is certain: Herta himself would like to hold on to his dream of competing in the premier class; he leaves no doubt about that.