The talent of Max Verstappen has a lot to answer for. Although his graduation to Formula 1 for 2015 at the age of 17, with just one season in car racing under his belt, will never be cited officially as the reason for the FIA's new superlicence qualification rules, it's surely no coincidence that these measures have been revealed at this time.
Verstappen's promotion from Formula 3 European Championship sensation to F1 fledgling has been controversial, with many arguing against it not because of his experience, but his age. Under the new-for-2016 rules he would fail on three counts: he isn't yet 18; he has scored only 20 of the 40 points required; and he hasn't amassed the two seasons of experience in the prescribed championships.
One of the biggest issues is whether the sport even needed the new superlicence qualification rules. Verstappen is an incredibly gifted driver, he has fantastic racecraft, unbelievable car control, and a maturity beyond his years with a very strong sense - and opinions - of what's right and wrong.