La FIA Super Licence It is one of the fundamental requirements for a driver to be able to compete in the highest category of motorsport, Formula 1. This license not only guarantees that the driver has the necessary skills needed to handle the fastest single-seaters in the world, but also has a system of points and penalties which regulates their behaviour on the track. In this article, we explain in detail everything you need to know about the Superlicence, how to obtain it, what the requirements are and its cost.
When it comes to Formula 1 racing, the speed and safety are two vital elements. The simple fact of getting behind the wheel of one of these cars requires exceptional skills and experience, something that the FIA controls through the Superlicence. This 'driving licence' for F1 drivers not only qualifies them to compete, but also works as a tool to ensure that only the more qualified pilots and with the necessary experience they can take part in the championship.
What is the FIA Super Licence?
La FIA Super Licence It is the highest competition license granted by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to drivers who wish to participate in the Formula 1 World Championship. This license was introduced in 1990 in order to ensure that only those pilots with the ability technical and mental necessary can compete, minimising risks and ensuring a high level of safety on the track.
Since its creation, the Super Licence has been an essential requirement for any driver wishing to race in an F1 Grand Prix. However, the requirements for obtaining it have changed over the years, especially since 2015, when the FIA tightened the conditions following the arrival in F1 of Max Verstappen, who made his debut at the age of 17 without even having a driving licence in his own country.
Requirements to obtain the Superlicense
To obtain the Superlicense, pilots must meet a series of strict requirements that ensure they are qualified to compete in Formula 1. The main requirements include:
- Minimum age of 18 yearsThis requirement was introduced following the controversy generated by Verstappen's entry into F1.
- valid driver's license, in addition to an international Grade A pilot license.
- Must have been completed at least 300 km of testing in a recent Formula 1 single-seater under controlled conditions.
- Having competed in at least two seasons of FIA international championships with a minimum of 80% of the time completed.
- overcome a written exam covering the sporting and technical regulations of F1.
- Accumulate at least 40 points in the previous three years in FIA-accredited championships that are part of the Super Licence points system.
The points system for the Superlicense
The points system implemented by the FIA since 2015 establishes that drivers must accumulate at least 40 points in the previous three seasons to be eligible to apply for the Super Licence. These points are awarded based on performance in lower championships such as Formula 2, IndyCar or the World Endurance Championship, among others.
For example, a driver who wins Formula 2 or IndyCar will automatically add 40 points, which will allow you to directly access the Super License. Other championships such as Formula 3, Formula E and NASCAR also award points, although to a lesser extent. Here are some examples of the points system according to category:
| Series | Champion | runner-up | Third |
|---|---|---|---|
| F2 | 40 | 40 | 40 |
| IndyCar | 40 | 30 | 20 |
| F3 | 30 | 25 | 20 |
| NASCAR Cup | 15 | 12 | 10 |
| FIA World Endurance Championship LMP2 | 20 | 16 | 12 |
Cost of Superlicense
El Superlicense cost is also an aspect to take into account. Each pilot must pay a base rate of 10.400 Euros to obtain the license, but that's not all. The FIA also charges 2.100 additional euros for each point that the driver has accumulated in the previous season. This pricing system means that the most successful drivers pay very high sums to renew their Superlicence.
To illustrate this cost, in 2023, Max Verstappen, after winning the championship with 575 points, had to pay 1.217.900 Euros. While Sergio 'Checo' Pérez, having finished runner-up with 285 points, paid a total of 608.900 Euros.
Can the Super Licence be lost?
Yes. In addition to having to be renewed every year, the Superlicense can also be lost if a pilot accumulates 12 penalty points over a 12-month period. This penalty system was introduced as a way of controlling the most aggressive or problematic drivers on the track.
Each Serious offense, such as ignoring yellow flags, causing collisions or gaining an advantage off the track, can lead to the accumulation of penalty points. Once a driver reaches 12 points, he will be penalized by missing a race. Penalty points expire after 12 months.
Renewal of the Superlicense
The Super Licence is not a lifelong document. Drivers must renew it every season, provided they meet the above requirements. For those drivers who have participated in F1 for three consecutive seasons, renewal is simpler, as they do not need to go through the entire renewal process. scoring and testing.
The future of the Superlicense
Although the Superlicense While it has been criticised at times for being too restrictive, especially for drivers from outside the FIA system such as IndyCar and NASCAR competitors, the FIA has defended its strictness on the grounds of ensuring safety and equality in access to F1. However, some cases, such as that of Colton Herta, have rekindled the debate over whether it should be made more accessible to those who have trained in alternative championships.
The Super Licence remains a key tool in maintaining the exclusivity and high standard of Formula 1. Drivers who obtain it not only demonstrate their driving skills, but also their ability to race at the highest level of world motorsport.