Verstappen Challenges FIA Superlicence Rules Blocking Young Talents Like Antonelli from F1 Debut

Max Verstappen criticizes the regulation that bars Kimi Antonelli from making his Formula 1 debut

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen expresses his disapproval of the FIA's superlicence requirements for F1 entry.

Max Verstappen has expressed disapproval of the FIA's regulation that presently prevents Mercedes talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli from starting his Formula 1 career.

The FIA, the regulatory authority of Formula 1, implemented a more rigorous points system following Verstappen's entry into his first grand prix at 17 years and 166 days old in 2015, directly moving up from Formula 3.

Currently, to be eligible for a superlicence, drivers are required to gather 40 points, attain the age of 18, and must have participated in at least 80% of the races across two complete seasons in single-seater categories.

In the previous year, Red Bull declined a request for a superlicence from IndyCar race champion Colton Herta.

Last week, during the Miami Grand Prix, news surfaced that a petition had been submitted to the FIA seeking approval for Antonelli to receive an F1 superlicence. This would enable him to possibly debut in a grand prix prior to his 18th birthday in August.

Triple world champion Verstappen has explicitly expressed his dislike for the existing FIA framework.

"The regulation was implemented due to my actions," stated the Red Bull racer in Miami. "Ultimately, it fails to halt its intended purpose.

"This isn't directly concerning Antonelli, but it may hinder certain skilled individuals from advancing swiftly into Formula 1, as they are required to gather those 40 points initially."

"I don't really like it – this whole setup. The FIA believes it's beneficial, but personally, I'd prefer it didn't exist. Why shouldn't a 17 or 18-year-old with maybe 20 points, who is exceptionally quick, be allowed to enter Formula 1?"

Speculation has been circulating that Antonelli, presently racing in Formula 2 after bypassing Formula 3, might be accelerated into an F1 debut just in time for the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend.

Nonetheless, Williams refuted rumors suggesting they might substitute Logan Sargeant, who faces challenges in retaining his position, in the upcoming Imola race.

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