How F1 teams find future stars – with Mercedes

Where do Formula 1 teams spot the drivers of the future? What are they looking for in young racers? And how did Mercedes guide Kimi Antonelli from karting to F1?   F1 Explains explores junior driver programmes, which exist to find talented young drivers and support them as they climb the motorsport ladder. Most F1 teams have these academies. Red Bull signed a young Max Verstappen, Ferrari supported Charles Leclerc and Oliver Bearman, Lando Norris was part of the McLaren programme, and Mercedes developed George Russell, Kimi Antonelli and Esteban Ocon during their junior racing. F1 ACADEMY leader Doriane Pin is also part of the Mercedes Junior Driver Programme. She tells Christian Hewgill how Mercedes spotted her and answers your questions on what the team is doing to support her career. The Mercedes programme is led by Gwen Lagrue, the man who discovered Russell, Antonelli and Ocon. Gwen explains how he identifies those with the most potential, guides them into junior car racing and decides when they are ready to step up to Formula 3, F2 and, finally, F1. Get your question answered on the podcastSend your voice notes and emails to [email protected]'s All To Drive For in 2025. Be there!Book your seat for a Grand Prix this season at tickets.formula1.comListen to more official F1 podcastsIn-depth interviews on F1 Beyond The GridExpert reaction before and after every Grand Prix on F1 Nation