Doriane Pin Makes Historic Mercedes F1 Test Debut at Silverstone After F1 Academy Title

Mercedes development driver Doriane Pin took a historic step toward a potential Formula 1 seat by completing her maiden F1 test session with the team at the Silverstone circuit.

The 2025 F1 Academy champion completed 76 laps in the Mercedes W12—the same car that secured the team’s 2021 Constructors’ Championship. Her test on Friday covered 200 kilometers, marking her first time behind the wheel of an F1 car.

"Driving an F1 car for the first time today was unreal. I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity and to be surrounded by this incredible team. 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. It was an extremely emotional day and I’m also thankful I was able to share this experience with my family,"

Pin said after the session.

"The W12 is obviously really different from the other cars I’ve been able to drive. Everything is different, bigger and more powerful. I am glad I was able to build confidence lap after lap and show what I was capable of."

Mercedes Praises Pin’s Performance

Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, commended Pin’s preparation and professionalism following the test.

"It’s been great to have Doriane complete a day of testing with the W12 today. It marks another major step on what is proving to be a very exciting and promising career and also makes her the first ever female driver of a Mercedes F1 car,"

Shovlin said.

"Her preparation and professionalism has impressed the whole team and she should be really proud of what she has achieved. 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 Makes History as First Frenchwoman in Modern F1

Pin’s test at Silverstone also made her the first Frenchwoman to drive modern F1 machinery in a Mercedes car.

Upcoming 2026 Season with Duqueine Team

Beyond her Mercedes role, Pin will compete in the 2026 European Le Mans Series with Duqueine Team, driving in the LMP2 Pro/AM Class. This opportunity will also give her a chance to return to the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2026, having made her debut at the iconic event in 2023.