DORIANE PIN’s Final F1 Academy Season Could Make or Break Her F1 Dreams

April 28, 2025

by Madeline Coleman // from www.nytimes.com

• DORIANE PIN’s motorsport journey reads like a masterclass in perseverance — from being too small for karting at six to winning the French Karting Championship in a make-or-break 2019 season funded by family savings. The French driver’s path hasn’t been traditional, but her grit caught Mercedes’ attention, landing her in their junior program and F1 Academy with backing from PREMA Racing and Iron Dames.
• The 21-year-old’s 2024 season showcased both her speed and resilience after a promising start turned challenging. PIN dominated early F1 Academy rounds before cracking five ribs mid-season, forcing her to withdraw from Le Mans and rebuild her strength. She returned to claim two more victories, finishing runner-up to Abbi Pulling in the championship standings while also competing in Formula Regional European Championship.
• Now in her final F1 Academy season, PIN already has a Shanghai victory under her belt but faces intense pressure as spots narrow on the F1 ladder. Her nickname “Pocket Rocket” — earned during her endurance racing success with Iron Dames — reflects the speed that’s carried her from budget constraints to Mercedes backing. With ten races remaining, this season will determine whether her F1 dream advances or stalls at the crucial junior formula level.

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