Doriane Pin urges young racers to "dare to believe" in their ambitions
Mercedes Formula 1 development driver and 2025 F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin has delivered a powerful message to the next generation of female racers, urging them to âdare to believeâ in their professional ambitions.
Reflecting on her rapid ascent through the racing ranks, the 22-year-old French driver highlighted the mental fortitude required to navigate the competitive landscape of motorsport. During a recent interview, Pin emphasized that self-belief is the fundamental engine of success.
From Karting Beginnings to Mercedes F1
Pinâs journey is a testament to long-term dedication. Her career began in karting at the age of nine, progressing to the national championship at 12 in 2016. After several years of competitive growthâincluding a female category victory in 2019âshe embarked on a diverse racing curriculum. Her experience spans the Renault Clio Cup, GT3 Le Mans Cup, and Formula 4 championships across South East Asia and the UAE.
Her standout performances in the F1 Academy during 2024 and 2025 served as the ultimate springboard. Following her championship win, Pin achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first woman to drive a Mercedes F1 car when she took the wheel of the W12 at Silverstone in 2026. This follows her historic maiden Formula 1 test, marking a significant era for the Brackley-based outfit.
Advice for the Next Generation
When asked what guidance she would offer young girls dreaming of a career behind the wheel, Pinâs advice was centered on unwavering confidence.
âYou should believe in your dreams. Itâs what drives you every day to reach it,â Pin stated. âSo if your dream is to go to the greatest races in the world, just go for it. Trust yourself, enjoy, dare to believe.â
Looking back, she noted that the most vital lesson would be to trust one's own potential. âTo trust yourself because when youâre a bit younger, you donât think that itâs possible and then you do it, and then you realise that it was easily reachable,â she added, encouraging young athletes to always think ahead.
Beyond her duties with Mercedes, Pin maintains a prolific schedule, racing in the European Le Mans Series and serving as a development driver for both Peugeot in the WEC and Citroën in Formula E.
Ciara Gillan
Ciara is a Dublin native, award-winning film producer, podcaster and writer with 20 years of storytelling experience. A lifelong Leinster and Ireland rugby fan, she turned her attention to the grid after moving to Berlin and co-founding Formula Live Pulse. Now, she applies her producerâs brain to Formula 1, navigating the highs of Oscar Piastriâs rise and the unique stress of being an adopted Ferrari fan. She loves talking and talking about F1, if you give her the chance!