F1: FIA reveals new superlicense points system

The FIA has revealed details of the new points system that will be used to qualify for mandatory Formula 1 superlicenses.

As part of a clampdown on young and inexperienced drivers getting to F1 following Max Verstappen's signing by Toro Rosso, the FIA in December ratified a new system that will be used for 2016. From next year, drivers will need to be at least 18 years old, have passed a test on sporting regulations, and completed at least two years in junior open-wheel categories to qualify.  The details of the new license points system have now been clarified, with drivers needing to have scored at least 40 points during the three-year period preceding the application.

Only five championships deliver those 40 points for title success – the IndyCar Series, the World Endurance Championship (LMP1), the Formula 3 European Championship, GP2 and a future Formula 2 championship. This means the winners of GP3 and Formula Renault 3.5 would need to have achieved success in previous seasons to be able to qualify for a superlicense.

Although there has been no official confirmation from the FIA about plans for a renewed F2 championship, it has weighted the category with the most points, with third place in the standings worth as much as title success in F3, WEC and IndyCar.

Verstappen finished third in the F3 standings last year, which would have earned him just 20 points on the new license system, and forced him to either race again in the category or move up to GP2.