Colton Herta to Go “Back to School”

Colton Herta explained that he is effectively going back to school as he prepares for his first full season in Formula 2 next year. His decision to step away from a successful IndyCar career is driven by the need to secure the super licence points required for a future Formula One opportunity.

The scale of the challenge is significant. Recent examples illustrate this, including Ritomo Miyata, who arrived from Japan as the reigning Super Formula and Super GT champion yet has recorded only one podium across nearly two complete Formula 2 seasons.

Speaking with presenter James Hinchcliffe in Las Vegas, Herta was asked how his preparation compares to what he would have done had he remained in the United States.

Herta said “it involves a thorough return to the foundations of single seater driving.”

He explained that “each type of formula car demands a distinct technique even when they appear similar.” According to Herta, the Formula 2 machine behaves in a very different way.

Herta described the process as a reset. He stated that “I have to relearn braking characteristics, the timing of brake release, and how to transition back to throttle application.”

He also noted a major change in tyre management, as Pirelli tyres behave very differently from the Firestone tyres used in IndyCar. He acknowledged that the list of new elements is long, but he is motivated by the challenge.

Herta added that although much will be unfamiliar, he does recall valuable lessons from his earlier years in Formula 3 and Formula 4. He described the upcoming programme as substantial and engaging.

Herta will drive a Formula Two car for the first time with Hitech in Abu Dhabi during the three day post season test scheduled for ten through twelve December.

In addition to duties as a test driver for the new Cadillac Formula One project, Herta will also compete in three events in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. He will participate in the Daytona twenty four hour race, Petite Le Mans, and the Sebring twelve hour event.

Herta acknowledged that the overall workload is considerable but welcomed the opportunity. He said the Cadillac sports car delivers an experience he has not previously encountered. He highlighted the naturally aspirated V ten engine, noting that he has spent his entire career with turbocharged units. He described the sound and feel of the engine as a striking change and an exciting aspect of the year ahead.

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