The three-time World Champion made his entry into the sport at 17, securing a full-time racing seat with Toro Rosso in 2015. He achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the youngest driver in Formula 1 history, breaking records not only for his age but also for being the youngest to score points and win a race at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix.
Verstappen’s achievements and records are likely to remain indefinitely unless certain regulations are changed. His young debut a decade ago led the FIA to review its rules and implement the Super License system in 2016. This system was created to prevent inexperienced drivers from making an immediate leap into Formula 1.
To be eligible for Formula 1, drivers not only must accumulate 40 Super License points but also be at least 18 years old, a requirement Verstappen did not meet. This age restriction posed a problem for Colton Herta, a promising IndyCar driver who was set to join Sauber in 2022 and AlphaTauri the following year. Unfortunately, Herta did not have enough Super License points to be considered by the FIA. AlphaTauri requested an exception to allow the American to compete in Formula 1, but their request was denied.
The topic of F1 Super Licenses has once again gained prominence due to speculation surrounding the possible replacement of Logan Sargeant by Formula 2 star Andrea Kimi Antonelli at Williams. However, Antonelli, at just 17 years old, has little chance of taking Sargeant’s place.
Verstappen, in an interview with the Dutch media, expressed his disagreement with the Super License system, stating that it was implemented because of him. He believes that the system does not achieve its intended purpose and hinders talented drivers from quickly entering Formula 1, as they must first accumulate the required 40 points. Verstappen argues that spots in Formula 1 should be awarded based on merit, regardless of age, and expresses his disdain for the entire system.
While rumors circulate about the possibility of Antonelli replacing Sargeant before the next Grand Prix in Imola, Williams Team Director James Vowles has rejected these claims. It is possible that the team is simply waiting for Antonelli to turn 18 before making any changes.
