P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes F1 junior Pin joins the FRECA grid
Doriane Pin was the standout performer at the start of the 2024 F1 Academy season in Saudi Arabia. She won both races in her Mercedes-liveried car but a communication error in the second race led to her crossing the line twice and receiving a penalty, dropping her to ninth place. Despite currently being third in the standings, behind Abbi Pulling and Maya Weug, Pin could secure a fully funded Formula Regional European seat in 2025 if she wins the F1 Academy title. Instead of waiting, Pin has decided to join the Iron Dames team for several World Endurance Championship rounds in 2024, including the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours.
In a statement, Pin expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and her commitment to the new challenge. She highlighted her excitement to work with Iron Dames and Mercedes as they aim to inspire young girls to pursue their racing dreams. Pin’s teammate at Iron Dames, Marta Garcia, had a dominant season in the inaugural F1 Academy year, claiming seven wins and five additional podium finishes. Together, Pin and Garcia will enter the FRECA championship, seen as a vital step towards Formula 3, under the Iron Dames banner. Iron Dames project founder Deborah Mayer praised the move and emphasized the project’s goal of nurturing talented female racers. The FRECA season kicks off on May 12 at Hockenheim, though Pin may miss the Hungarian round due to a scheduling conflict with the Barcelona F1 Academy event.
