Colton Herta to race in Formula Two with Hitech TGR in 2026

Written by Teagan Crump

The nine-time IndyCar race winner will switch to the European motorsport ladder after shock exit from Andretti Autosport. 

Image credit: Gavin Baker / Lumen via Getty Images | Colton Herta departs IndyCar for F2

Herta announced last month that he would be stepping away from IndyCar in order to take a role as Cadillac F1’s test driver. The driver from California competed in Europe from 2015 to 2016 but chose to pursue the American motorsport ladder, choosing to compete in Indy Lights (now IndyNXT) from 2017.

Herta has amassed over 100 IndyCar starts over his 8-year career, so the sudden decision to leave American single-seater racing left many fans wondering what was next for him.

Image credit: Formula 2 | Herta will be joining Hitech TGR for the 2026 Formula 2 season

In a statement, Herta said:

““I’m incredibly excited to be joining Hitech for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 season. This is a big shift in my career, and I’m ready for the challenge”

He then went on to show appreciation for his time in IndyCar and what it taught him:

“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.”

Herta went on to express why he thought that Hitech TGR was the best team for him:

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

Clive Hatton, Team Manager at Hitech TGR added:

“We’re delighted to welcome Colton to the team for the 2026 Formula 2 season. 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.”

Many fans are eager to see how Herta will perform in this highly anticipated move, and whether he will adapt quickly given the vast differences between the IndyCar car, circuit styles and difference in racing between the USA and Europe.