21 January 2026Racingnews365Driver Ratings
Mercedes appoints F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin as 2026 development driver
Mercedes promoted 22‑year‑old French driver Doriane Pin to a development driver role for 2026 after she clinched the 2025 F1 Academy title, marking a key step for the team’s talent pipeline and female representation in Formula 1.
Mercedes has elevated 22‑year‑old French racer Doriane Pin from its junior programme to a development driver slot for the 2026 season, rewarding her 2025 F1 Academy championship win.
Why it matters:
- Strengthens Mercedes' driver pipeline alongside existing prospects such as Frederik Vesti.
- Demonstrates the F1 Academy’s effectiveness as a talent source, especially for women.
- Reinforces the team’s public commitment to diversity and technical development.
The details:
- Pin clinched the all‑female championship in Las Vegas, out‑pacing Ferrari‑linked Maya Weug.
- Her duties will include simulator work, on‑track testing, and engineering support at Brackley and Brixworth.
- She will attend several Grand Prix weekends and mentor the yet‑to‑be‑named 2026 F1 Academy driver.
- Mercedes said her full 2026 racing programme will be announced “shortly.”
What's next:
- A detailed 2026 schedule is expected soon, possibly featuring select Formula 2 or regional entries.
- Strong performance could open a future race‑seat opportunity, extending the F1 Academy pathway.
- Mercedes plans to use her technical feedback to accelerate car development while promoting greater female participation in motorsport.