Teenager Max Verstappen is set to make his debut as a Formula One racing driver during free practice at the Japanese Grand Prix next month.

The 16-year-old son of former Benetton driver Jos Verstappen will become the youngest race starter in F1 history if he takes his place on the grid next season with Toro Rosso.

The Dutch prodigy completed his first test with the team last week and his Toro Rosso outfit have applied for his super licence — years before he is qualified to drive on the road in his native Netherlands.

Team boss Franz Tost said: “It is in the hands of the FIA as to whether he gets his super licence to do the Friday P1 session at Suzuka. Then we will see.

“We are preparing him step-by-step and I am convinced he is the right driver for us for 2015.”