How F1 teams find future stars – with Mercedes' Pin

F1 ACADEMY points leader Doriane Pin recently discussed her journey with the Mercedes Junior Driver Programme on the F1 Explains podcast. Pin shared how Mercedes identified and supports her talent as she progresses in motorsport. The episode also featured Gwen Lagrue, head of Mercedes' junior program, who discovered talents like George Russell, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and Esteban Ocon. Lagrue explained his process for identifying high-potential drivers and determining their readiness for F3, F2, and F1. This highlights the crucial role junior academies play in nurturing future Formula 1 stars, a common practice among top teams like Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren.