P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA has reportedly been requested to offer special dispensation to grant a Super Licence to Mercedes Formula 1 Junior
Due to his outstanding performance in junior formula, Antonelli has already acquired the necessary points for a Super Licence to compete in Formula 1. However, being only 17, Antonelli must wait until he turns 18 on August 25 to be eligible. The FIA introduced the age limit after Max Verstappen’s debut at 17 in 2015. There are discussions and considerations regarding bending the rules to grant Antonelli an F1 seat, although few precedents exist. Antonelli, skipping Formula 3 for Formula 2 in 2024, has started F1 preparations with tests for Mercedes and the escalating speculation of him joining Mercedes or Williams. Williams’ Team Principal James Vowles has remained non-committal to rumors of Antonelli replacing Sargeant, stressing current car performance over driver concerns. Vowles emphasized the need for improvement and the merit-based nature of driver decisions, suggesting Sargeant’s position is secure for the present.
