How The FIA Is Stopping Inexperienced Rich Kids From Racing In F1

The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, has revealed plans to introduce a new points system that will be used to qualify for the mandatory super license, which is required to compete in the sport.

In a bid to stop young, inexperienced drivers - who often come with plenty of sponsor money - from racing in F1, the system will be introduced from 2016 onwards.

Several other new rules regarding the F1 super license will also come into force next season. Following 17-year-old Max Verstappen’s surprise signing as a Toro Rosso driver for this year, F1 hopefuls will need to be at least 18, and must have passed a test on sporting regulations. They also need to have at least two years in feeder categories to qualify.

Young drivers will need to score at least 40 points - over a three-year period - in the new system preceding application. Verstappen made his single-seater debut last year in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship. Third place in the standings would give him 20 points in the 2016 system.

Securing the title in IndyCar, GP2, the FIA F3 European Championship, the FIA World Endurance Championship (LMP1 only) and a future F2 series that does not yet exist will deliver the full 40 points.

Meanwhile championship success in GP3 and Formula Renault 3.5 will be worth 30 points, with Japanese Super Formula’s maximum being 20 points. National FIA F4 and F3 championships will give out 10 points for the champion, with five being handed to winners of Formula Renault 2.0 categories.

Here is a table of the points system, courtesy of Autosport: