Herta to join Hitech for 2026 F2 season in bid to reach F1

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Hitech TGR has been confirmed as the team that will field Colton Herta in the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship, marking the American’s first major step toward a Formula 1 seat with Cadillac in 2027.

The announcement gives clarity to Herta’s European campaign, which was revealed last month as part of Cadillac’s long-term F1 development plan.

With the US outfit locking in Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for their 2026 debut, Herta is seizing the opportunity to prove his mettle in F2 and accumulate mileage and experience on the same circuits as F1.

Ready For the Challenge

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Hitech for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 season,” commented 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.

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“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’s pedigree and competitive edge make it the perfect launchpad for Herta’s European adventure.

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

Hitech confident Herta can adapt quickly

Herta’s new team boss, Clive Hatton, said the British outfit was eager to help the American make the transition to the fiercely competitive world of Formula 2.

“We’re delighted to welcome Colton to the team for the 2026 Formula 2 season,” Hatton said. “He already brings a level of experience, professionalism, and talent that we’re typically used to nurturing in drivers as they progress through the junior categories.

“This is an exciting step for Colton, but also a challenging one. He’s stepping into a new racing environment that has very different formats, with high expectations, and a clear goal of progressing to F1.

“But his determination and commitment are impressive and we’re delighted to help maximise his potential during the 2026 season.”

Having already proven his speed in IndyCar, Herta will now face an entirely new test in F2’s high-pressure, spec-car arena.

It’s a bold career move, but one that perfectly aligns with Cadillac’s F1 vision – and for Colton Herta, it’s another major step toward fulfilling that ultimate goal: a seat on the Formula 1 grid in 2027.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.