APEX RACEWIRE Newsroom
Andretti Praises Herta's F1 Resolve During F2 Stint
Motorsport icon Mario Andretti expressed admiration for Colton Herta's unwavering commitment to securing a Formula 1 seat, a goal he is currently pursuing while competing in Formula 2 and testing for Cadillac.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-03-26T22:00:04.000Z - 2 min read
Veteran racing figure Mario Andretti has openly expressed his admiration for Colton Herta, commending the American driver's determined pursuit of a Formula 1 career. Herta's current journey involves competition within the Formula 2 championship, a key step in his ambition to secure a permanent F1 seat.
This season, Herta balances a dual role on his path towards grand prix racing. He is actively participating in the Formula 2 series, showcasing his abilities on the junior single-seater ladder. Concurrently, Herta holds a test driver position with the Cadillac Formula 1 team, providing development input as he works towards a future full-time role in the top tier of motorsport.
The commitment to an F1 future led Herta to a significant career decision, as he stepped away from the IndyCar Series. This move underscored his singular focus on the European motorsport pathway, reflecting a strategic pivot designed to maximise his chances of fulfilling his long-held ambition to race in Formula 1.
Andretti, a motorsport icon with his own extensive F1 history, noted Herta’s palpable drive. Speaking on the driver's conviction, Andretti indicated that Herta’s earnest desire to make the leap into Formula 1 is unmistakable. This observation from a legendary figure like Andretti offers a significant endorsement of Herta's dedication and the seriousness of his intent.
The comments from the former Formula 1 world champion highlight a genuine personal investment from Herta. His current efforts in Formula 2, combined with his testing duties, are presented not merely as professional obligations but as direct manifestations of a deeply held ambition. This intense focus appears to be a core element of his approach to breaking into the pinnacle of racing.
Herta's presence on the Formula 2 grid is therefore more than just a competitive drive; it forms a critical proving ground for his aspirations. Each race and testing session contributes to building the necessary experience and profile to ultimately achieve his stated goal of competing in Formula 1. The respect shown by Andretti underscores the magnitude of Herta's commitment to this challenging path.