Unpacking How a Driver With Zero F2 Points Can Still Drive in F1

Aston Martin is set to give Cian Shields his Formula 1 debut this weekend during the first free practice session of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a move that has raised eyebrows given Shields' lack of points in feeder series like Formula 2 and Formula 3 over the past two seasons. This decision highlights the intricacies of F1's Super Licence rules, which aren't solely based on a driver's performance points but also on their participation in lower categories.

Why it matters:

• This announcement sparks debate on the criteria for F1 entry, particularly for young drivers making their debut in a free practice session.
• It brings attention to the current Super Licence regulations, which allow drivers to participate in F1 sessions even without a stellar competitive record in junior categories.
• For Aston Martin, it's an opportunity to test new talent, but it also underscores the varied pathways available to aspiring F1 drivers, some of which prioritize experience over immediate competitive results.

The Details:

• Cian Shields' Background: Shields will drive Fernando Alonso's AMR25, despite having yet to score a point in either Formula 2 or Formula 3. His best F2 result was 11th in the Imola Feature Race, and he finished 13th in the GB3 standings in 2022.
• Contrasting Teammate Performance: His AIX Racing teammate, Joshua Dürksen, has amassed 72 points in F2 this year, including a sprint victory in Australia and five other podium finishes. Similarly, Jak Crawford, who will drive the other Aston Martin car in Abu Dhabi, is second in the F2 standings with 170 points and four wins.
• Super Licence Requirements: The rules for obtaining a Free Practice Only Super Licence are not exclusively performance-based. A driver needs to meet one of the following criteria:
  • Complete six events in the Formula 2 championship.
  • Score more than 25 points over the previous three-year period, which can include the current calendar year.

The Big Picture:

Formula 1's Super Licence system is designed to ensure a minimum level of experience and competence for drivers entering the sport. While a robust points system exists for full race Super Licences, the requirements for free practice sessions are more lenient. This allows teams to evaluate a broader pool of talent, including those who might not have accumulated significant championship points but have demonstrated consistent participation in relevant feeder series. This flexibility is crucial for driver development and for teams looking to identify future stars.

Looking Ahead:

Aston Martin's decision to field Shields in Abu Dhabi's free practice session will provide valuable data for both the team and the driver. It offers Shields a crucial opportunity to gain F1 experience, irrespective of his junior category results. The event will likely reignite discussions within the F1 community about the balance between performance and participation in the Super Licence framework, as teams continue to navigate the pathways for bringing new talent into the sport.