Mercedes development driver Doriane Pin completed her first-ever F1 test on Saturday at Silverstone, and it was an “extremely emotional” experience for the 2025 F1 Academy champion.
The 22-year-old took the wheel of a 2021-spec Mercedes W12 to fulfil a programme that unfolded over 76 laps of Silverstone Circuit, or over 200 kilometers, marking a breakthrough not just for her career, but for representation in the sport.
For Pin, the long-awaited outing was about far more than data runs and lap times – it was deeply personal.
“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,” she commented.
“It was a unique opportunity and I made sure to enjoy my day to the fullest, along with doing the best job I could.”
The milestone carried added significance as she became the first woman to drive a modern Mercedes F1 car – a moment she embraced with pride, but also perspective.
“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 added.
Growing into the challenge
Transitioning into Formula 1 machinery is no small leap for any driver, and Pin was quick to acknowledge the scale of the challenge, but also the satisfaction of mastering it step by step.
“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,” she said.
©Mercedes
Behind the scenes, her performance left a strong impression. Mercedes’ engineering team praised her composure and technical feedback, highlighting not just her speed, but her ability to adapt quickly to one of the most complex machines in motorsport.
“It's been great to have Doriane complete a day of testing with the W12 today,” commented Mercedes trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin.
“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.
“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.”
©Mercedes
Mercedes driver development advisor Gwen Lagrue highlighted the broader significance of the test, noting that the milestone serves as a powerful beacon for future talent.
“It is always really special for a young driver to drive an F1 car for the very first time. Today, it is even more unique as Doriane is the first ever woman to drive a Mercedes F1 car,” he said.
“We are very proud to show to the next generation of female drivers that driving an F1 car is achievable. I am sure we will see a woman driving in F1 in the coming years and as a team, we would be incredibly proud if we were to achieve that goal with someone in our team.
“Doriane can certainly act as an inspiration for those following in her wheel tracks as she continues her career and role as Development Driver with our team.”
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook
