Herta, 25, is already well known to motorsport fans as one of the standout names from the IndyCar Series. A multiple race winner and the youngest victor in the category’s history, he has long been regarded as one of America’s brightest racing prospects. Now, he’s set to return to Europe for a new challenge in the sport’s main F1 feeder series.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to get back to racing in Europe and compete against some of the best young drivers in the world,” Herta said. “Formula 2 is a hugely competitive environment and racing on the same weekends as F1 will give me valuable experience. I’m thankful to Cadillac and Hitech for their trust and I’m ready to give it everything.”

Before moving to IndyCar, Herta raced in several European junior series including British F4, British F3, Spanish F3 and Euroformula Open. His return to the continent with Hitech represents both a step toward Formula 1 and a return to familiar territory.

Throughout 2026, Herta will balance his F2 program with ongoing simulator and test duties for Cadillac’s new Formula 1 team. The overlapping schedules between F1 and F2 are expected to make that transition smoother, giving him exposure to both the engineering and operational sides of Cadillac’s F1 effort.

Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports and Cadillac Formula 1 Team, believes this move fits perfectly into Herta’s long-term development plan. “Colton has already shown outstanding skill and maturity,” he said. “Racing in F2 will strengthen his racecraft on European circuits and help integrate him further into our Formula 1 program. This is the right step at the right time.”

Herta joins one of the most established F2 teams on the grid. Hitech has helped develop several current F1 drivers, making it a proven environment for young talents aiming for the top.

While Herta has previously been linked to potential F1 opportunities, the new partnership with Cadillac and Hitech brings him closer than ever to that goal. If he adapts quickly to the Pirelli tyres and the unique demands of Formula 2 machinery, he could soon find himself in contention for a race seat in the premier category.

“Of course, F1 is the dream,” Herta added. “But right now, my focus is fully on learning as much as I can and performing well in F2. That’s the best way to earn any future opportunity.”