F2 and lower categories could get F1-style superlicence points system

The FIA is planning to widen the Formula 1 superlicence points system to govern when drivers are allowed to enter junior categories such as Formula 2.

The system, which is in its fifth year, restricts entry to Formula 1 only to drivers who have scored a total of 40 superlicence points, which are awarded by various championships, over a three-year period.

Questions have been raised over the standard of driving in junior championships after Formula 2 driver Mahaveer Raghunathan (above) committed a string of driving offences throughout 2019, the latest of which was described as “extremely dangerous” by the stewards. He has already been banned from one event having collected 12 endorsement points on his licence, and only escaped a second ban on a technicality this weekend.

Asked about the Raghunathan case in Abu Dhabi, FIA president Jean Todt revealed that consideration is being given to extend the superlicence scheme.

“I do believe that as we did with the superlicence for the [Formula 1] drivers, it’s something we need to apply for the lower categories,” said Todt. “Starting from karting, Formula 4, Formula 3, Formula 2.

“It’s something we need to address because it’s cars which are very competitive, very quick, it’s a lot of wheel-to-wheel racing. So it’s something we are considering for the future.”

Mick Schumacher has also clarified the status of his superlicence this weekend. The Ferrari Driver Academy member provoked confusion earlier this year when he ran with a mixture of red and green lights during F1 tests for different teams. Green lights indicate a driver who has not acquired a superlicence.

The 20-year-old, who will drive for Prema in F2 again next year, confirmed: “I have the super licence. It is framed up in my room!”

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