Mercedes development driver Doriane Pin completed another major step on her potential journey to the Formula 1 grid, completing a test session for the team at the historic Silverstone circuit.

Pin, the 2025 F1 Academy champion, completed 76 laps in the W12, the car that helped power Mercedes to the 2021 Constructors’ Championship. It was her first time turning laps in F1 machinery, and she completed 200 kilometers during her session on Friday.

 “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,” said Pin after the test 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.”

Andrew Shovlin, the team’s trackside engineering director, hailed Pin’s “preparation and professionalism” after the session.

“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,” said Shovlin.
 
“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 became the first Frenchwoman to drive modern F1 machinery in the session.

In addition to her role with Mercedes, Pin will drive with Duqueine Team for their 2026 European Le Mans Series, competing in the LMP2 Pro/AM Class. This will give Pin a chance at driving in the Le Mans 24 Hours for the second time, as she made her debut at that historic event back in 2023.