Colton Herta Shuts Down Latest Formula 1 Speculation

IndyCar star Colton Herta has once again addressed persistent rumors linking him to a potential Formula 1 move, this time through a speculated detour to the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

Herta has been on F1’s radar for years. From the failed Andretti-Sauber deal in 2021, to testing McLaren’s TPC car, to being linked with Red Bull and AlphaTauri, his name has repeatedly surfaced as one of America’s brightest prospects for a seat on the grid.

But the Californian has never secured the required FIA Super Licence points to make the jump. With this year’s IndyCar standings confirming that a top-four finish, and the 40 points needed for F1 eligibility, is now mathematically impossible, fresh speculation has emerged that Herta might consider racing in Formula 2 to fast-track his path.

Speaking ahead of the Snap-On 250 at the Milwaukee Mile, Herta made clear he’s weary of the chatter.

Colton Herta Tired of the Talk

“I’ve been dragged around in these talks for, like, half a decade now,” he said. “I’ve had the carrot in front of me for a while, and I’m kind of tired of that being the case, and I just want to drive at this point and focus on IndyCar this year and focus on winning the championship, and if something arises out of that, I’d still have to think about it.”

Herta’s comments underline his commitment to his current role with Andretti Global, where he remains firmly in the hunt for the 2025 IndyCar championship, rather than chasing an uncertain F1 opportunity.

Still, he didn’t entirely close the door on the future, admitting that he would “think about it” if a genuine offer materialized. But any move to Formula 2, or Formula 1 itself, would come with significant personal sacrifices.

“All my friends and family are here in the US, and I don’t know anybody where I would be going, so it’s a big decision to make if I have to make that decision,” Herta said, emphasizing the emotional and logistical challenges of uprooting his life to Europe, where all F1 teams are based.

For now, Herta’s focus remains on IndyCar, where he continues to chase wins and prove himself as one of the series’ top contenders.

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