Doriane Pin, the 2025 F1 Academy champion, recently shared her experience of testing a Formula 1 car with Mercedes at Silverstone. She discussed the differences between F1 machinery and other cars she has driven in the past, including Formula 4 equivalent F1 Academy cars and the Ferrari 488 GTE from Ferrari Challenge Europe. Pin made history as the first female racing series champion to test an F1 car and as the first woman to drive a Mercedes F1 car. Following her championship win, she was also promoted to a development driver role within the Brackley team.
During an interview on the Mercedes Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show, Pin described the test day as one of the best days of her life. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with the team, improve her driving skills, and experience the incredible feeling of driving an F1 car at Silverstone. The French driver emphasized the unique thrill of driving an F1 car, highlighting the speed, downforce, and braking capabilities that set it apart from other racing cars.
Pin acknowledged the challenges of adapting to the F1 car but felt well-prepared thanks to her prior collaboration with engineers and the team. Despite the surprises she encountered during the test, she was able to find her comfort zone in the car and make the most of the experience. Overall, Pin’s test with Mercedes was a memorable and rewarding opportunity that allowed her to showcase her talent in the world of Formula 1.
