DTM challenges F1 superlicense rules

The DTM's three manufacturers are pushing the FIA to reconsider its new Formula 1 superlicense system so the category is not excluded from the list of series that qualify a driver.

As part of an effort to impose stricter criteria for drivers earning F1 licenses, the FIA has introduced a new system whereby drivers earn points for success in junior categories. There has already been some controversy with a future F2 championship being awarded the most points, while Renault has expressed its concern to the FIA that its own categories do not carry as much weight as it believes they should.

DTM manufacturers Mercedes, Audi and BMW have now also jointly written to the FIA to request that the governing body looks again at the system after leaving the category off completely. They believe that the DTM's competitiveness, and the fact it has been a springboard to F1 for drivers in the past, is evidence that it should not be ignored.

Sources at all three manufacturers have confirmed to AUTOSPORT that they are unified in their belief that the DTM must be added to the FIA superlicense roster. Getting the championship included would be of biggest use to Mercedes, whose F1 reserve Pascal Werhlein would currently not qualify for a superlicense in 2016 under the current criteria irrespective of what he achieves in DTM this year.

Williams tester Susie Wolff said last week that Werhlein's case was proof that something needed to change.

"It can't be like that," Wolff said about the superlicense situation. "Pascal is in a different place to me – he's an up-and-coming driver. He's a guy that it can't limit the likes of him coming in.

"We've got to be aware of the fact that the time in a Formula 1 car is so valuable because it's so limited. So every kilometer you can do gives you an advantage as a driver. It gives you experience and it can't be overlooked completely."

Originally on Autosport.com