Will Buxton, a prominent Formula 1 journalist and commentator, has voiced his enthusiasm for seeing Kyle Larson — one of America’s most talented and versatile drivers — behind the wheel of an F1 car. In a recent conversation with NASCAR champion Kevin Harvick, Buxton highlighted both his admiration for Larson’s driving prowess and his frustrations with the barriers that make such a crossover difficult, particularly the FIA Super License system.
Buxton praised Larson’s natural talent, adaptability, and success across various racing disciplines, from NASCAR to dirt track racing. He believes Larson possesses the raw skill and racecraft necessary to compete in Formula 1 — a series often regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport. However, Buxton lamented the rigidity of the FIA’s Super License points system, which acts as a gatekeeper to F1 eligibility. Under current regulations, drivers must accumulate a specific number of points over three years from recognized racing series to qualify for an F1 seat.
This system, Buxton argues, is overly restrictive and overlooks exceptional talent that lies outside traditional European single-seater pathways. Larson, despite being a generational talent in American motorsports, doesn’t automatically qualify for an F1 seat due to his racing background not aligning with the FIA’s point structure.
In Buxton’s view, this is a missed opportunity — both for the sport and its fans. Allowing drivers like Larson into F1 would not only raise the level of competition but also bridge global motorsport communities. He suggests that the FIA should consider more flexible pathways for elite drivers from diverse disciplines. If merit truly rules in Formula 1, then someone with Kyle Larson’s credentials deserves at least a chance to prove himself on the world stage.
Ultimately, Buxton’s comments reflect a growing call for reform — one that values raw talent alongside regulation.
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