24/06/2016
NEWS STORY
Upcoming drivers who avoid penalty points in lower series have been given an F1 superlicence incentive.
In the wake of the move which saw Max Verstappen secure an F1 race seat with Toro Rosso whilst only 16, the FIA reacted by overhauling the system by which drivers can qualify for the superlicence required to move up to the discipline.
The first move, which came into effect this year, was to raise the minimum age to 18, even though in his first season, still only 17, the youngster was to win the FIA's own 'Rookie of the Year' award (and two others) following a sensational debut season.
Initially, the new system required drivers to gain a minimum of 40 qualifying points over a three-ear period, with some series deemed more relevant than others. Indeed, under the rules a number of current drivers, including 2007 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, would not have qualified for a superlicence.
The system was subsequently revised, with the points system equalled out and additional series included.
In a fresh move however, the FIA has deemed that safe drivers should be given additional impetus and as such "any driver having competed in the entire championship without being given any penalty point will be granted a 'Safety Bonus' - an additional two points on top of their achieved points".
Furthermore both Formula E and International V8 Supercars have been added to the Superlicence points system.
Previously only the Formula E champion could qualify for a superlicence.