Mercedes announces female driver for 2026 season
Mercedes has confirmed that Doriane Pin has been promoted to Development Driver, taking on an expanded role within the team.
The French driver, who secured the 2025 F1 Academy title with Prema as part of the Mercedes Junior Team, now graduates from the squad’s Junior Programme.
In her new role, Pin will contribute across simulator development and other activities, both at the factory and trackside.
The 22-year-old will also attend several Grands Prix, acting as a support and sounding board for the team’s 2026 F1 Academy driver.
Pin enjoyed a stellar championship-winning campaign in the F1 Academy, claiming four victories, four additional podiums, and sealing the title in Las Vegas.
Pin reacts to new Mercedes role
Reflecting on the promotion, Pin expressed her pride and gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting her enthusiasm for the year ahead with Mercedes.
"I'm very proud and grateful to take on the role of Development Driver with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. My two years as part of the Junior Programme have helped me grow as a driver, and this is a fantastic next step in my career,” Pin said.
“I’m excited to keep working with everyone at Brackley and Brixworth and progressing toward future opportunities, both on and off track,” she concluded.
Mercedes team representative Bradley Lord also welcomed the announcement.
“In her two years within our F1 Academy team, she combined dedication, speed, and racecraft with strong technical feedback and engineering knowledge, culminating in her championship success last season,” he said.
“These skills are vital to progress up the motorsport ladder, and this new role will help Doriane continue to grow and develop as a driver on her motorsport journey,” he concluded.
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