Mercedes announces new role for F1-backed champion driver

Mercedes' junior driver Doriane Pin is to step up to a development driver role in 2026 after her F1 Academy title success.

French racer Pin claimed the all-female racing championship title in 2025, defeating Ferrari's Maya Weug in Las Vegas.

Pin, 22, will join the roster of drivers, including Frederik Vesti, to form the roster who complete simulator and development work for the eight-time constructors' champions, both trackside and at the Brackley factory.

Pin will also attend several grands prix in her new role as well as mentoring the team's to be announced F1 Academy driver for the 2026 season. 

Her racing programme for the 2026 season will be announced shortly.

"’m very proud and grateful to take on the role of Development Driver with Mercedes," she explained.

"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. I’m excited to keep working with everyone at Brackley and Brixworth, and progressing toward future opportunities, both on and off track.

"I also want to say a big thank you to everyone at F1 Academy in helping me reach this position.

"The series provides a brilliant platform for female drivers, and I am honoured to be collecting the championship trophy this evening. As I continue my own journey in motorsport, I know there will be more incredible women following in my wheel tracks, and I wish them all the very best of luck for the season ahead."

Team representative Bradley Lord added that Pin had showed skills "vital to progress up the motorsport ladder."

"We are delighted to announce that Doriane will step up to the role of Development Driver in 2026," he said.

"In her two years within our F1 Academy team, she combined dedication, speed, and race-craft with strong technical feedback and engineering knowledge - culminating in her championship success last season.

"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. 

"Her success in F1 Academy, and the opportunity the series presents, has prepared her well for this next step and we're excited to see her tackle it alongside a soon-to-be-announced racing programme."