Motorsport’s governing body is to review the current Super Licence system to ensure that competitors are not disadvantaged due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Since 2016 the FIA amended the Super Licence systems in order to persuade drivers to follow its single-seater latter, with 40 points required in order to make the step to Formula 1.
But several young drivers and championships have been adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Red Bull protégé Juri Vips was unable to secure access to Japan, Indy Lights opted to cancel its entire 2020 season, while it is understood that the Macau Grand Prix will not take place.
In a statement the FIA says it is “seeking to safeguard potentially vulnerable series by specifically targeting the encouragement of participation once competitive activity resumes” and will “address any disparity in the system that might be caused by differing re-start times.”
“The Covid-19 crisis has had a profound effect on all sporting activity and motor sport is no exception,” said the FIA’s President of the Single-Seater Commission Stefano Domenicali.
“Many circuit racing series are experiencing economic difficulty, while competitors are naturally concerned about missing a season or committing to a competition amid uncertainty around the re-commencement of racing – and the negative impact either may have on their progress along the FIA’s single-seater pathway.
“The FIA is cognisant of these concerns and we would like to reassure series, teams and competitors that through the Super Licence Working Group the Federation is developing solutions that will afford fairness to competitors, encourage participation and help series maintain some stability during this difficult period.”
