At just 20 years old, Doriane Pin is already one of the most talked-about names in the junior motorsport ranks. Representing Prema Racing in the 2025 F1 Academy season and backed by the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme, she’s quickly proving why she’s a future force to be reckoned with.

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A racing start in endurance

Pin’s path to single-seaters wasn’t typical. Her early years were spent in endurance racing, competing with the all-female Iron Dames squad. There, she built a reputation for maturity, composure, and racecraft far beyond her years — even competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans before she turned 20.

In 2023, she took the runner-up spot in the FRECA Winter Series with Prema and caught the eye of Mercedes. By early 2024, her place in the F1 Academy was confirmed, along with her status as a full-fledged Mercedes Junior Driver.

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Dominating the F1 Academy grid

From the first round of the 2025 season, Pin has looked like a title contender. With consistent podiums, pole positions, and a fierce wheel-to-wheel racing style, she’s become a standout in a highly competitive field.

She’s also a leader off-track, often speaking out about the importance of visibility for women in motorsport and mentoring younger drivers in the paddock. Her blend of performance and professionalism makes her an asset not just for Prema, but for Mercedes’ long-term ambitions.

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Mercedes’ future in focus

Mercedes’ investment in Doriane Pin is more than symbolic. With Lewis Hamilton now driving for Ferrari and George Russell leading the team, Pin could be groomed as a long-term prospect — perhaps one of the first women in decades to test, reserve, or even race for a top-tier F1 team.

While Toto Wolff hasn’t confirmed her trajectory beyond the academy, it’s clear she’s being closely watched. With her current momentum, a move to F3 or FRECA full-time in 2026 looks like the logical next step.

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What sets Pin apart?

  • Adaptability: She transitioned from GT endurance cars to single-seaters with ease.
  • Race Intelligence: Her tire management and track awareness are exceptional.
  • Mental Toughness: She’s often cool-headed under pressure, a rare trait at her age.
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Final thoughts

Doriane Pin isn’t just participating in F1 Academy — she’s redefining what dominance looks like in a developing series. Backed by Mercedes and armed with talent, confidence, and an ever-growing fanbase, she’s steering herself toward the very top of motorsport.

If you’re not already watching her, now’s the time to start.

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