Doriane Pin shares thoughts after making Mercedes F1 history

Doriane Pin has become the first female driver to pilot a Mercedes Formula 1 car after completing her maiden test at Silverstone on Friday.

The 22-year-old French driver, a Mercedes development driver, completed 76 laps of the Silverstone National Circuit in the championship-winning W12 from the 2021 season, covering 200 kilometres in total.

Pin, who won the F1 Academy title last year, described the experience as "unreal" and emphasised the emotional significance of the milestone.

"I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity and to be surrounded by this incredible team," she said.

"It was a unique opportunity and I made sure to enjoy my day to the fullest, along with doing the best job I could. Whilst being a female driver doesn't define me, it was great to show what we can do."

The affectionately nicknamed 'Pocket Rocket' spent extensive time in Mercedes' simulator ahead of the test, working closely with engineers to prepare for the demands of the W12.

Andrew Shovlin, trackside engineering director, praised Pin's preparation and performance, noting she looked at home from the opening laps.

"Her preparation and professionalism has impressed the whole team and she should be really proud of what she has achieved," Shovlin said.

"Whatever series you come from, it is always a massive step when getting into an F1 car but she looked at home from the very first laps and was able to enjoy driving the car on the limit."

Pin acknowledged the significant step up from her previous machinery, describing the W12 as "really different from the other cars I've been able to drive."

"Everything is different, bigger and more powerful," she said. "I am glad I was able to build confidence lap after lap and show what I was capable of."

Pin will continue her development driver duties at Mercedes, which include simulator work, factory and trackside activities, grand prix attendance and mentorship of the team's 2026 F1 Academy driver, Payton Westcott.