Max Verstappen says he understands why the FIA has introduced a new age restriction for Formula 1 and tougher stipulations for acquiring a super licence.
The new rule, which says a driver must be at least 18 years of age, hold a valid driving licence and had success in junior series to amass enough points to qualify, will be introduced next year.
Verstappen, who is just 17, wouldn’t have qualified if the rule had been introduced this season.
“Someone who’s 15 or 16 is not ready for Formula 1,” he told Dutch news agency ANP. “That person needs to be karting.
“So I do understand that the FIA wants to prevent teams from contracting even younger drivers. But I’m happy that I already have [a contract in place].”
Verstappen’s deal with Toro Rosso was a controversial one considering he is not only the youngest driver to ever compete in a F1 season, but he lacks experience having competed in a single season of Formula 3.
Yet he feels some drivers, such as himself, can be ready to take the leap at such a young age. He referred to Kimi Raikkonen as another driver who would have failed to qualify under the new rules.
“Don’t take away the opportunities for talented drivers to get a drive in Formula 1,” he added. “If this rule was already there in the past, even Kimi Raikkonen couldn’t have started in Formula 1 when he did.
“Some people are ready at a younger age – it’s the same for me. Since childhood, Formula 1 was my main target. I’ve been working towards that goal with my father in many years of karting. I don’t know any better.”
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