Colton Herta, the rising star of NTT IndyCar Series, is savoring every moment in the exhilarating world of sports car racing. As he gears up for a pivotal season across the Atlantic, the 25-year-old Californian is not just aiming for glory; he’s setting his sights on a potential leap into the illustrious realm of Formula 1.
Rejoining forces with Wayne Taylor Racing, Herta is ready to tackle a thrilling three-race stint in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship next year, piloting the formidable No. 40 Cadillac V-Series.R alongside seasoned racers Jordan Taylor and Louis Deletraz. This trio is not new to success; they clinched victory at the prestigious Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring in 2024, with Herta previously showcasing his skills behind the wheel of a Honda-powered IndyCar.
With excitement bubbling over, Herta reflected on his return during a recent IMSA-sanctioned test at the iconic Daytona International Speedway. “It’s good to be back with Wayne Taylor and new for me, with the Cadillac. It’s exciting to be back here,” he exclaimed. The thrill of navigating this powerful machine is palpable for Herta, who described the driving experience as a “joy,” emphasizing how unique and enjoyable sports car racing is compared to his usual IndyCar endeavors. “I really do treasure my time here. I feel very fortunate to be able to do this,” he added, encapsulating the joy and gratitude he feels.
The Cadillac isn’t just another race car for Herta; it’s the third LMDh vehicle he has taken for a spin, following stints with the BMW M Hybrid V8 and Acura ARX-06. Despite his extensive experience, Herta acknowledges there’s still much to learn about the Cadillac. “There’s still a lot for me to learn about the Cadillac, so it’s hard for me to judge completely. But it’s good,” he shared. The depth of competition in the series, with a mix of manufacturers and models, excites him, especially after coming from IndyCar’s limited two-manufacturer landscape.
As he prepares for this new chapter in Formula 2 with Hitech TGR, Herta is particularly eager for the chance to race back on home turf. With planned appearances at the renowned Rolex 24, Sebring, and Motul Petit Le Mans, he’s set to make waves in familiar territory. “It’s great to be with Cadillac, especially with all the other stuff that I’m doing with them,” Herta noted. He also expressed a sense of comfort in returning to America amid his European commitments, signaling a blend of excitement and nostalgia.
Reflecting on his previous experience with WTR, Herta acknowledges the stability among the core staff, which has remained intact despite the team’s expansion into a two-car operation. The familiarity with the engineers and main personnel fosters a sense of continuity, even as he navigates new dynamics within the Cadillac team. “The people in the main roles that I would interact with are the same,” he stated. He’s eager to engage with the new team members, driven by a desire to glean insights and unlock the full potential of the Cadillac.
In the world of motorsport, where every second counts and every race is an opportunity to shine, Herta is poised for an electrifying season ahead. With the spirit of competition in his veins and a passion for racing that fuels his ambitions, there’s no telling how far this talented driver will go. The thrill of sports car racing and the allure of Formula 1 await, and Colton Herta is ready to seize his moment on the global stage.
