F1 LIVE | Mercedes officially unveil new W17 livery for 2026 season

Mercedes has confirmed that Doriane Pin has been promoted to Development Driver, taking on an expanded role within the team.

The French driver, who secured the 2025 F1 Academy title with Prema as part of the Mercedes Junior Team, now graduates from the squad’s Junior Programme. The 22-year-old, in her new role, will contribute across simulator development and other activities, both at the factory and trackside.

The promotion will also see Pin attend several Grands Prix, acting as a support and sounding board for the team’s 2026 F1 Academy driver.

Pin enjoyed a stellar 2025 season in the F1 Academy, claiming four victories en route to her championship win in Las Vegas.

The Scuderia Ferrari outfit offered a glimpse of Charles Leclerc completing his seat fitting as preparations continue ahead of the launch of their SF-26 challenger.

The Monegasque driver, who is set to embark on his eighth season with the Italian outfit, has now ticked off another key pre-season milestone as the start of the new campaign edges ever closer.

Only recently did Leclerc, alongside teammate Lewis Hamilton, unveil the team’s race suit for the upcoming campaign. The 28-year-old also recently revealed his helmet for the new season.

As the commencement of the 2026 season draws nearer, our Paddock Update is the place to be.

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