Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an Italian driver from Prema Racing in Formula 2, has received the news that he may make his debut in Formula 1 before turning 18 years old. This is due to a recent change in the minimum age regulation by the FIA. Antonelli, who is currently considered one of the top candidates to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season, previously couldn’t compete in F1 due to his age. However, a request for exemption, believed to be from Williams, was made to allow Antonelli, who is currently 17 years old, to be exempt from the age requirement. This request was successful and the modification in the International Sporting Code now allows drivers who have consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and maturity in single-seater formula car competitions to receive a superlicense at 17 years old. Additionally, the FIA has removed the rule that previously required superlicense holders to have a valid driver’s license when applying for the license for the first time. This change was implemented in response to Max Verstappen’s early entry into Formula 1 at 17 years old.
