Behind the Wheel: A Conversation with Colton Herta
Colton Herta sits down for a candid chat about his racing career, personal interests, and championship aspirations in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. As one of the sport’s prominent figures, Herta brings a refreshing blend of competitive drive and laid-back personality to the racing circuit.
Championship Pursuit
The Andretti Autosport driver has his sights firmly set on claiming the INDYCAR championship. Herta joins a competitive field that includes:
- Three-time and current champion Alex Palou
- Two-time series champion Will Power
- Six-time champion Scott Dixon
- Two-time champion and current Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden
Off-Track Interests
When he’s not racing at speeds over 200 mph, Herta maintains a balanced lifestyle with various hobbies:
- Golf (self-described as "mediocre")
- Coffee appreciation
- Outdoor activities
"I’m pretty honest about my golf game – it’s mediocre at best, but I enjoy getting out there," Herta admits with characteristic candor.
INDYCAR’s Evolution
The sport continues to grow and adapt, with significant changes on the horizon:
Broadcasting Changes
Starting in 2025, INDYCAR racing will see a major shift in its media presence:
| Network | Coverage Details |
|---|---|
| FOX Sports | Exclusive U.S. television rights |
| FOX | All races live broadcast |
| Special Coverage | 109th Indianapolis 500 |
Racing Environment
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES showcases racing versatility across multiple track types:
- Superspeedways
- Short ovals
- Street circuits
- Permanent road courses
"The variety of tracks really tests a driver’s complete skill set. You have to be adaptable to succeed in INDYCAR," notes Herta.
International Competition
The series features an international field of drivers competing at the highest level of open-wheel racing in North America. This diverse lineup creates an environment where:
- Driving styles vary significantly
- Different racing backgrounds converge
- Competition levels remain consistently high
- Technical expertise becomes crucial
The blend of veteran champions and rising stars like Herta creates an exciting dynamic in the paddock, where experience meets raw talent in the pursuit of racing excellence.
