The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (ADARL) is ready to witness the early official debut of 17-year-old Formula 2 rookie, Kimi Antonelli, thanks to two changes in the FIA’s Formula 1 superlicense rules. While Antonelli is widely expected to join Mercedes next season, these changes now open the door for an earlier move, if desired.
Previously, there were rumors that Antonelli would make his debut with Williams in 2024, potentially replacing struggling driver Logan Sargeant. However, the FIA superlicense regulations presented two obstacles: the driver needed to be 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. Antonelli will only turn 18 in August and cannot obtain a driver’s license in Italy before then.
Fortunately, the FIA’s International Sporting Code has been updated, eliminating the need for a driver’s license and allowing drivers who have demonstrated exceptional skill and maturity in single-seater formula car competition to receive a superlicense at 17 years old. Antonelli has already achieved significant success, winning multiple Formula 4 and Formula Regional titles, and has the necessary number of superlicense points to race in F1.
In the end, whether Antonelli’s early debut changes anything or not depends on Mercedes’ decision. The team’s desire to give him a race seat in 2025 comes from their confidence in his talent and their intention to compensate for the loss of signing Max Verstappen. Mercedes wants to ensure that Antonelli is ready before making any decisions, which is why Carlos Sainz is effectively out of the running to replace Lewis Hamilton.
The chance for Antonelli with Mercedes seems to be on the right track, as he demonstrates more consistency in his F2 campaign and impresses the team with his private F1 testing program. Although it was initially speculated that Antonelli would have several years of learning at Williams before joining Mercedes, the plan may have changed. A move to Williams in the middle of 2024 for a few months may not be beneficial for Antonelli or the team, considering the effort and disruption involved.
However, the rule changes also apply to the super license only for Friday free practice sessions, allowing Antonelli to gain experience at Mercedes during the mandatory FP1 sessions for rookies and other training opportunities before the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The logical use of the opportunities provided by the FIA changes will give Antonelli valuable experience in several grand prix weekends and with the current car.
