Why has the FIA decided to lower the age limit for issuing a super license?

Goodbye to the “Verstappen rule”: That rule was in effect precisely as a preventive measure after the debut of the now three-time world champion Max Verstappen - who found himself in the caravan at the age of 17. It was immediately apparent how talented he was. Still, since then, he has matured and become a challenging (if at all) unstoppable force that marked the previous period in Formula 1.

The FIA has updated Appendix L with Article 13.1.2, which reads: “At the sole discretion of the FIA, a driver judged to have recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car comPetition may be granted a Super Licence at the age of 17 years old.”

Kimi Antonelli - the real reason behind the decision

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is a Mercedes Academy student driving his debut season in Formula 2 for Prema Racing. According to European motorsport media, the 17-year-old Italian is the favorite to succeed Lewis Hamilton - who is moving to Ferrari. Antonelli previously won titles in the Italian Formula 4 and twice in the European Regional Formula Championship.

The rule change comes after speculation that the FIA will issue a super license to Kimi even though he is not yet of legal age. Adapting the regulations could help him secure a seat for the next season and make his debut in one of the training sessions this season. Antonelli was born on August 25, 2006, so we could see him on the track towards the end of the season.

The next race of the Formula One season is the Spanish Grand Prix, which will be held at the Catalunya circuit from June 21 to 23.