Mercedes Finalizes 2026 Development Roster as Dürksen Joins, Pin Steps Up, Vesti Named Third Driver
The appointments consolidate Mercedes’ driver pipeline to strengthen simulator work, trackside support plus TPC running before pre-season.
Overview
- Formula 2 racer Joshua Dürksen joins as a development driver with simulator duties and Testing of Previous Cars programmes while competing in 2026 with Invicta Racing.
- Doriane Pin, the 2025 F1 Academy champion, graduates from the Junior Team to a development role with simulator and trackside responsibilities that include supporting Mercedes’ F1 Academy entry, with her 2026 race plans yet to be disclosed.
- Anthony Davidson takes on a development driver role after more than a decade of simulator work with the Brackley team.
- Frederik Vesti is promoted to Mercedes’ third driver as part of the team’s refreshed structure for 2026.
- Mercedes confirmed the line-up following private running in Barcelona and its 2 February launch as it readies for the new campaign.