Colton Herta: I'm having a hard time in Formula 2.

      Colton Herta is ready to admit that his first season in Formula 2 has been something of a revelation for him, and the most challenging aspect for the American driver, who has experience winning in IndyCar, has been adapting to the Pirelli tires. The tires produced by the Italian company are used in both Formula 1 and the junior series F3 and F2.

      For Colton and the new Cadillac team, which is betting on him for the future, it was important that during the season in Formula 2 he learned the characteristics of these tires and gained experience racing on tracks that host Formula 1 events. Additionally, it is important to earn enough points to obtain an FIA super license, but so far, the situation for the 26-year-old driver from California leaves much to be desired, as after nine rounds of the season he is in a distant 16th place in the personal standings.

      "I believe the experience I am gaining in Formula 2 has opened my eyes to a lot," he said, according to the American publication Racer. "I think every series has its good and bad sides, and I am finding it challenging, although it is all interesting.

      I would say the main difficulties are related to the tires. The Pirelli tires work in a very specific way, especially when they are cold, since tire blankets are not used in F2. However, the upside is that this creates good conditions for preparing for Formula 1. There, tire blankets are used, and it will be easier since the task will remain the same – to maintain the required tire temperature, rather than heating them from a cold state, when their temperature can be around 30-40 degrees.

      Overall, I think this will simplify my task somewhat in the future. There is a plus to this, and right now I am giving it my maximum attention."

      Colton is not able to earn points at every round, but according to the Hitech team driver, he enjoys working his way through the pack, and the level of racing skill among his competitors makes a strong impression on him:

      "I believe the quality of racing in this series is very high. The DRS system in F2 cars works very effectively, especially given the downforce they are set up for, and the additional aerodynamic elements installed on the rear wing create significant air resistance, and all of this contributes to interesting battles on the track.

      I think it is quite well known, but I like this aspect of Formula 2 – the level of competition, wheel-to-wheel duels. I also believe there are great drivers here, and moreover, everyone knows how to race very fairly on the track. So I am interested in being a part of all this."

      Before the Dutch round of the season, Herta has 26 points, while his more experienced teammate Ritomo Miyata has only 8 more, placing him 13th in the personal standings. However, like Colton Herta, the Japanese driver has not been able to rise above 5th place so far.