F1 Academy Champion Doriane Pin Inspired by Lewis Hamilton

Doriane Pin, the 2025 F1 Academy champion, has detailed the significant influence seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton had on her professional trajectory and development as a driver.

During an appearance on the Beyond The Grid podcast, the 22-year-old driver reflected on her childhood admiration for the current Ferrari driver, noting that he served as her primary inspiration when she first began following the sport.

Pin recalled watching Formula 1 at home with her father as a young child, identifying 2014 as a pivotal year in her early memories. She specifically cited Hamilton’s first title victory with Mercedes, which was his second world championship as a defining moment.

The young driver explained that the competition between Hamilton and his teammate, Nico Rosberg, during that era deeply inspired her and acted as a motivating force throughout her early career.

Transition to Mercedes

The transition from being a fan to working alongside her idol occurred in 2024, when Pin joined the Mercedes junior program and entered the all-female F1 Academy series.

Pin admitted that it felt surreal to have Hamilton overseeing her progress during her initial stages in the F1 Academy. Because Hamilton was still a member of the Mercedes team during her first year in the program, Pin was able to receive direct support and professional guidance.

So, I was able to have some advice and support from him, and it’s still up to last year. We discussed a bit sometimes when we see each other, and he’s there to help and very easy to talk with. So, I’m glad we met and I’m glad I had the chance to get some advice from him.

Doriane Pin via Beyond The Grid podcast

According to Pin, this mentorship continued through 2025. Even after Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes, the two have maintained a valuable relationship, with Pin stating that they still communicate from time to time and that Hamilton remains willing to help.

Career Milestones and Team Integration

Pin’s progression through the racing ranks has been marked by a rapid ascent over the last few years:

• 2014: Developed early inspiration watching Lewis Hamilton win his first Mercedes championship.
• 2024: Entered the F1 Academy and joined the Mercedes junior program.
• 2025: Secured the F1 Academy championship in her second year of competition.
• 2026: Signed with Mercedes as a development driver following her championship success.

Beyond the individual influence of Hamilton, Pin highlighted the importance of the environment at Mercedes. She described the team as having an incredible atmosphere of camaraderie that has supported her growth.

The driver emphasized that she feels she has the freedom to communicate with anyone within the organization, a factor she views as essential to her success as she transitions into her role as a development driver.