P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Colton Herta’s shock switch from IndyCar to F2 – F1’s primary feeder series – for 2026 is a “quite courageous” move that will nevertheless prove very difficult, according to some of the category’s current drivers
Colton Herta’s surprise move from IndyCar to Formula 1’s feeder series Formula 2 for 2026 is viewed as courageous by his racing peers, though they anticipate significant challenges ahead for him.
Herta, a nine-time IndyCar race winner, is departing Andretti to join a yet-to-be-announced F2 team in pursuit of his F1 dream with Cadillac, showcasing his ambition and determination.
Despite Herta’s established success in IndyCar, breaking into the competitive F2 field poses a formidable task, as noted by top drivers from the 2025 F2 season.
The current F2 championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli and Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad emphasized the magnitude of the transition Herta is undertaking, citing the technical and track-specific difficulties he will encounter.
Acknowledging the significant shift from IndyCar, drivers like Lindblad and AIX Racing’s Joshua Dürksen express excitement at the prospect of Herta’s move to F2, recognizing the potential for mutual learning and growth in the sport.
Having some prior experience on European circuits, including races alongside Lando Norris in 2015, Herta’s capabilities have impressed his peers, who believe in his adaptability and talent to make a mark in the challenging F2 environment.
