‘You’re Inspiring a Generation’ – A Letter to Doriane

Hi Doriane,

We are so proud of you. Your first test in a Formula One car, what an incredible day, and such a special moment for you and your family.

I still remember the first time I saw you racing, back in karting, I think it was at Le Mans. A few years later, we met again in Monaco where we began discussing your journey with our Junior Programme and F1 ACADEMY.

Since then, you’ve truly flourished. Moving up categories was not easy, but you worked relentlessly.

Together, we prepared for a title fight in F1 ACADEMY in 2024… and you went on to win the 2025 championship. Our F1 ACADEMY champion. An incredible, unforgettable moment.

When you step back and look at the bigger picture, this year marks the 10th anniversary of our Junior Programme. Today, we have George, Kimi and Fred leading the way in Formula One.

And now we also have our F1 ACADEMY champion stepping up into a Development Driver role and becoming the first ever woman to drive a Mercedes F1 car.

That is a historic day.

^{Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue watched on as Doriane claimed the 2025 F1 ACADEMY championship in Las Vegas.}

What you achieved at Silverstone, driving the W12, goes far beyond this moment. You are sending a powerful message.

You are inspiring an entire generation of young women in F1 ACADEMY, in karting, and beyond. You are showing that Formula One is no longer a distant dream for women.

It is within reach. And through what you are doing, we are closer than ever to making that a reality.

Seeing you push, work hard, and stay fully focused on the job was truly impressive. I felt immense pride witnessing it, and I know the whole team felt the same.

Silverstone, the legendary W12, what a moment.

I hope you took in every single second of this unique experience.

See you soon,

Gwen