FIA increases Super Licence points for IndyCar from 2026

The FIA has officially increased the number of Super Licence points awarded to IndyCar drivers from the 2026 season, a move that acknowledges the championship's competitive level and provides a more viable route for its competitors to graduate to Formula 1. While Formula 2 remains the primary feeder series, the adjustment significantly boosts the points available for drivers finishing between third and ninth in the IndyCar standings.

Why it matters:

This update directly addresses a long-standing barrier for top IndyCar talent, most notably exemplified by Colton Herta's situation in 2023. The change legitimizes IndyCar as a top-tier proving ground and could influence career decisions for young drivers on both sides of the Atlantic, potentially increasing the talent flow into F1.

The details:

• The points increase, approved at the recent World Motor Sport Council meeting, is designed "to reflect the growing significance of the category."
• Under the new system for 2026, the champion still receives 40 points, but points for positions 3rd through 9th see substantial raises.
  • For example, 3rd place jumps from 20 to 25 points, and 4th place doubles from 10 to 20 points.
• Despite the increase, a driver like Colton Herta—who had 35 points from his IndyCar performances—would still have fallen one point short of the 40 required for an F1 seat under the new 2026 scale.
• Formula 2 continues to offer a higher points yield for the top finishers, with the top three all receiving the full 40 points.

The big picture:

The revision is part of a broader FIA effort to streamline and clarify the path to Formula 1. It comes alongside other regulatory frameworks approved for the 2026 season, which include new sporting, technical, and financial regulations. The governing body also confirmed a return to a single pre-season test from 2027 once the new 2026 rules mature.

What's next:

The increased points value may stem the flow of IndyCar stars like Herta feeling compelled to move to F2 to chase a Super Licence. It solidifies IndyCar's position as a credible alternative pathway to F1 and could make teams more willing to consider its drivers for future seats, knowing the points hurdle is now lower.