Colton Herta is gearing up for a significant transition as he moves from IndyCar to Formula 2 in 2026, aiming to secure a seat with Cadillac F1. This bold move sees the American driver leaving behind the premier open-wheel series in the U.S. to compete in Europe’s key feeder series, where adapting to new technical demands will be crucial.
Enzo Fittipaldi, a Formula 2 veteran and grandson of two-time F1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi, has offered important advice based on his four years competing in F2. According to Fittipaldi, the toughest adjustment for Herta will be mastering the handling of Pirelli tires, which differ significantly from the Firestone tires used in IndyCar.
Understanding the Tire Challenge in Formula 2
Fittipaldi explained that the working range for Pirelli tires in F2 is quite narrow, requiring precise management to maximize performance. He emphasized that knowing when the tires reach their optimal window during qualifying laps will be essential for Herta’s success, along with strong team support to manage tire strategy effectively.
“My advice to Colton is to learn how the tires work, ‘cuz I feel the working window of the Pirelli tires in Formula 2 is very small,” the 24-year-old Brazilian said. “So I feel the more experience you have on how to bring the tires in, knowing when the tires are in the optimal window to do the push lap in qualifying is gonna be extremely important, and as well with the team supporting him on that is gonna be very important.”
“I think that’s the biggest difference I have noticed between the US to Europe, the way the tires are brought up to temperature and the way you push on the tires.”
IndyCar competitors like Herta utilize Firestone tires, which have a less sensitive operating range compared to the Pirelli compounds that are standard in F2 and Formula 1. To prepare, Herta has already taken part in an F2 test with Hitech TGR last year, aiming to familiarize himself with the new tire dynamics ahead of the 2026 season.
Support from Former Teammate on Herta’s Bold Move
Kyle Kirkwood, Herta’s former IndyCar teammate at Andretti Global, expressed admiration for Herta’s decision to step down into F2 in pursuit of a Formula 1 career. The two raced together for three seasons, where Herta was the more experienced driver, boasting seven wins and several podium finishes.
In 2026, two-time IndyCar champion Will Power is set to take over Herta’s No. 26 Honda seat. Kirkwood, who will aim to establish himself as Andretti Global’s top driver, praised Herta’s determination through an interview with RacingNews365.
“I’m proud of him for making that leap — it’s not easy. I can’t say that I would do the exact same thing, because I’m now 27 years old, but it’s going to be extremely interesting to watch his progression in the series.”
“I don’t think it’s anything new for him, being in F2 or racing in Europe, because he’s raced F3 before. But him taking that leap now is something that takes a lot of courage, and I think we’re all proud of him here in the US for what he’s done,” Kirkwood added.
Upcoming Testing and the Road Ahead
Colton Herta will soon begin his 2026 F2 campaign with preseason testing scheduled in Barcelona from February 17 to 19. Despite fully committing to the European series, Herta has expressed that he is not yet finished with IndyCar and plans to return to American open-wheel racing after his Formula 1 aspirations.
This transition represents a carefully calculated yet risky route for Herta as he pursues his ultimate goal of reaching Formula 1. His ability to adapt quickly to the technical and competitive challenges of F2, especially managing the new tire characteristics, will be closely watched by fans and insiders alike.
The move also marks a significant shift in his career trajectory, highlighting the different pathways drivers take between racing series around the world. With endorsements from experienced figures like Enzo Fittipaldi and support from peers such as Kyle Kirkwood, Herta’s next chapter holds both uncertainty and promise as he aims for the pinnacle of motorsport.
