IndyCar star completes sensational career switch in hunt for F1 seat

Colton Herta will race in the Formula 2 category next year with Hitech TGR, the team has confirmed.

Herta has spent the last eight seasons racing in IndyCar. His highlights include winning nine races and finishing runner-up in the 2024 drivers' standings.

The 25-year-old was recently signed by Cadillac as a development driver for the 2026 season, when the American squad will join the F1 grid.

As well as carrying out his duties with Cadillac, Herta will compete full-time in the Formula 2 category as he makes a bid for a full-time drive in F1.

“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.

“I’ve always worked to keep the door to F1 open, and this move is part of that ultimate ambition. 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 is currently fighting for the teams' title in F2, while its driver Luke Browning is a contender for the drivers' championship with two rounds remaining.

“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,” Herta added. 

“I want to thank them for believing in me and providing the platform to make this step.”

F1 graduates from the Hitech team include the current Racing Bulls line-up of Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar.

Herta is only the fifth driver officially confirmed on next year's F2 grid.