P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has signed a new driver to its F1 development programme.
Mercedes has signed Joshua Durksen for a development driver role in the 2026 season to assist the team in aiming for success. Durksen, a 22-year-old talent, has shown promise with four wins and 12 podiums in his Formula 2 experience with AIX Racing. He will rejoin Formula 2 with Invicta Racing this year, a team boasting back-to-back championships. Durksen will work alongside Doriane Pin as a development driver, focusing on simulator duties and Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) in addition to his F2 commitments. Anthony Davidson, a retired driver with ties to Mercedes, will continue supporting the team’s simulator operations and driver roster management.
