This Friday, Doriane Pin made history by becoming one of the few female drivers, and even rarer, French, to take the wheel of a Formula 1 car during official testing. At just 22 years old, she showcased her potential behind the wheel of the Mercedes W12 at Silverstone.
A Historic Moment
Doriane Pin completed 76 laps of the Silverstone circuit on Friday, April 19, amounting to around 200 km, in a Formula 1. This test marked the culmination of a promising journey for the young French driver, who is competing in the European Le Mans Series with the Duqueine team. As a reserve driver for Mercedes, she joined the team’s young driver academy in 2023. After convincing simulator sessions, Toto Wolff, the team’s director, promised her this test. Promise kept, and what a moment it was!
Doriane Pin in the Mercedes W12 at Silverstone.
An Unforgettable Experience
With eyes shining with emotion, Doriane Pin shared her thoughts: “Driving an F1 for the first time today was unreal. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity and to be surrounded by such an incredible team.” For her, this day was not just a simple test; it was a unique moment that meant a lot to her. “Being a female driver does not define me, but it was important to show what we are capable of,” she added, highlighting the symbolic significance of her test.
An Impressive Machine
Behind the wheel of the Mercedes W12, a car entered by the Silver Arrows in 2021 and crowned with the constructors’ championship that same year, Doriane experienced the thrills these machines provide. “The W12 is very different from the cars I have driven before. Everything is bigger, faster, and more powerful,” she stated. This experience allowed her to gain confidence lap after lap, revealing her capabilities.
Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell were alongside Doriane Pin for her first F1 test.
Positive Feedback from the Team
Doriane’s performance did not go unnoticed. Andrew Shovlin, track engineering director at Mercedes, praised her: “It was a pleasure to see Doriane complete this test day with the W12. It is an important step in a very promising career.” She thus becomes the first woman to drive a Formula 1 for Mercedes, a significant milestone in a sport where women are still often underrepresented.
He did not fail to highlight her professionalism: “No matter your experience, stepping into an F1 is always a big leap, but she seemed comfortable from her first laps.” This statement shows that Doriane possesses the qualities required to compete at this demanding level.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Gwen Lagrue, head of the young driver programme at Mercedes, also celebrated this event: “It is always a special moment for a young driver to discover an F1, but even more so today as she is the first woman to do so with Mercedes.” The idea behind these tests is clear: to provide inspiring examples for new generations. Doriane Pin could well become an iconic figure for all those who dream of reaching the heights of motorsport.
“We are convinced that a woman will race in F1 in the coming years,” added Gwen Lagrue. This reflects a clear commitment to include more women in a sport where they are still too few.
In Summary
- Doriane Pin becomes one of the first women to drive an F1.
- She completed 76 laps at the Silverstone circuit in a Mercedes W12.
- Toto Wolff promised her this test after convincing performances in the simulator.
- Her performances were praised by members of the Mercedes team.
- Doriane aims to inspire young generations in motorsport.
