The transition from IndyCar hero to Formula 2 hopeful has proven far more challenging than anticipated for Colton Herta. Despite his undeniable talent, F2 CEO Bruno Michel offers a candid assessment: Herta might have simply underestimated the monumental leap required for the European ladder series.

Key Takeaways:

Colton Herta is currently 19th in the F2 standings, a stark contrast to his IndyCar form.

F2 CEO Bruno Michel believes Herta and the team "underestimated the difference" in the working environment.

The limited practice and qualifying format in F2, designed for **F1** preparation, poses a significant hurdle.

Despite struggles, **Herta's** long-term **F1** ambitions, especially with **Cadillac**, remain the driving force.

The Reality Check: Herta's F2 Struggles

After seven seasons dominating the American single-seater scene, **Colton Herta's** highly anticipated return to Europe has hit an unexpected snag. The Californian racer, who moved across the pond with aspirations of a future **Formula 1** seat, currently sits a disappointing 19th in the **F2** drivers’ standings.

His performance has, bafflingly, deteriorated throughout the season, leading to multiple crashes and leaving the driver himself searching for answers. This unexpected dip casts a shadow over his ambitious career move and his test and development role with **Cadillac's** nascent **F1** team, set for 2026.

Michel's Insights: The F2-IndyCar Divide

Speaking on **Herta's** challenging debut, **F2 CEO Bruno Michel** didn't mince words. "It's been more difficult than what I thought it was going to be, because Colton is a very strong driver, there's no doubt about that," Michel stated. He elaborated, suggesting that both **Herta** and the championship organizers "maybe underestimated the difference of working environment that we had compared to **IndyCar** teams."

This candid assessment highlights a critical distinction between the two premier series. The unique pressures and operational methodologies of the **F1** feeder system are proving to be a steeper learning curve than many, including **Herta**, might have expected.

Limited Track, Maximum Pressure: The F2 Gauntlet

One key factor identified by Michel is the unforgiving **F2** weekend format. Drivers are granted a mere 45-minute free practice session and a 30-minute qualifying round before tackling two races. This extreme limitation on track time forces immediate adaptability and precision.

"In 30 minutes, you come up with the right timing, you have two flying laps on sets of tyres on which you have very limited track time," Michel explained. This format is intentionally designed to mimic the tight schedules of **Formula 1**, preparing drivers for the highest echelon of motorsport. It's a challenge that **Herta** has likely struggled with more than anticipated.

What's Next for the American Ace?

Despite the current difficulties, Michel expressed hope for a strong finish to the season for **Herta**, especially with the upcoming **Qatar** and **Abu Dhabi** rounds now confirmed to proceed. "I really hope, sincerely, that he's going to finish the season on a high – he deserves it," he added.

As for **Herta's** future, a sophomore **F2** season isn't his preferred path. However, with his **Cadillac F1** development role looming, he won't rule out any option if it aligns with the team's long-term strategy. The path to **F1** is rarely straightforward, and **Colton Herta's** journey continues to be one of intense scrutiny and high stakes.