The FIA has announced a significant increase in the superlicence points awarded to drivers in Super Formula, beginning in 2025. This move brings the Japanese single-seater series closer in line with other top motorsport categories, such as Formula E and the World Endurance Championship's Hypercar class.
Previously, the Super Formula champion was awarded 25 superlicence points, a total that aligned with the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine, while the second- and third-place finishers received 20 and 15 points, respectively. However, under the new regulations set for 2025, the points allocation has been increased. The winner of Super Formula will now receive 30 points, the second-place finisher will earn 25 points, and the third-place finisher will collect 20 points. This updated structure matches both Formula E and FIA Formula 3 in terms of points distribution, with only Formula 2 and IndyCar offering higher rewards. The revised system also aligns Super Formula with the World Endurance Championship's top division, where the champion receives 30 points, and the runner-up is awarded 24 points.
The full points distribution for the top 10 finishers in the championship now reads 30-25-20-15-12-9-7-5-3-2. This mirrors the points allocation in FIA Formula 3, further solidifying the parity between these important single-seater championships.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the decision to increase the superlicence points reflects the "evolution" of Super Formula in recent years. The spokesperson explained that the FIA regularly reviews its superlicence points system to ensure it aligns with the changing landscape of single-seater racing. "This update reflects the evolution of the series as one of the fastest single-seater competitions outside of the FIA Formula One World Championship," the statement said. The FIA's working group also highlighted that Super Formula has seen an increasing number of drivers move from the series into Formula 1 and other FIA World Championship categories, further raising its profile.
The statement also likely alludes to drivers like Liam Lawson, who finished as the runner-up in Super Formula last year, and has since made his mark in Formula 1. Other notable Super Formula alumni include Ryo Hirakawa, who has gone on to race in the World Endurance Championship, and Sacha Fenestraz, who now competes in Formula E.
Another key factor contributing to the points increase is the expansion of the Super Formula calendar. Starting in 2025, the series will feature 12 races, up from the current nine, with most of the rounds being double-headers. This increase in race numbers ensures that the championship remains competitive and challenging, providing more opportunities for drivers to showcase their skills and earn valuable superlicence points. Organizers of Super Formula, JRP, have already outlined plans to increase the race count further in the coming years, with an ambitious medium-term target of 20 races spread across 10 race weekends.
As of now, current Super Formula points leader Sho Tsuboi has already accumulated the 40 points required for a superlicence, thanks to his title victories in Super GT in 2021 and 2023. Should he secure the Super Formula title this weekend at Suzuka, Tsuboi will maintain his 40-point total, as the 20 points he earned for his 2021 GT500 title are set to expire after this season. This highlights the continued importance of Super Formula in the development of talented drivers capable of progressing to the highest levels of motorsport.
Overall, the increased superlicence points for Super Formula is a significant step in recognizing the importance of the series as a stepping stone to Formula 1 and other major FIA championships. With the rise in points, expanded race calendars, and the growing prominence of drivers moving into the world’s most prestigious motorsport series, Super Formula is firmly establishing itself as a key player in the global motorsport landscape.
