BEYOND THE GRID: Pin on her path from karting to tackling new opportunities as a Mercedes Development Driver

At only 22 years old, Doriane Pin already has an impressive racing record — FIA World Endurance Championship podium finisher, 2025 F1 ACADEMY Champion and now Mercedes Development driver.

It’s a journey that began when she first sat in a kart aged nine, dreaming of racing in Formula 1. That goal hasn’t gone away. Instead, it’s got closer than ever before…

In the latest episode of the Beyond The Grid podcast, Pin sits down with Tom Clarkson to talk through her racing story so far. From feeling like a 'superhero' in her kart, to seeking sponsors at the age of 11, taking on the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and being spotted by the Mercedes Junior Programme, it’s been a rollercoaster.

Switching to open wheel cars on Grand Prix circuits, she burst on to the scene, winning on her F1 ACADEMY debut. Supported by Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, advice from the series’ Managing Director Susie Wolff helped her score points in every race and be crowned champion at the end of her second season.

Stepping up to become a Development Driver for Mercedes, Pin shares how her new role puts her at the heart of the Silver Arrows, how she’s adjusting to the new challenges and her busy year ahead competing in the European Le Mans Series and the 24 Hours of Le Mans once again.

To listen to the episode on your preferred audio platform, click here.