Al Dhaheri talks Mercedes Juniors, Formula Medicine and GB3

Apart from that big news, Al Dhaheri's activities since his last report, also included GB3 testing at Donington and Silverstone, and a return to Formula Medicine ahead of his full-time FRECA campaign.

The announcement was made on 7 March, with Mercedes Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue praising Rashid’s talent and potential: "I've known Rashid for a few years now, since he was racing in karts. Not only the best driver coming from the Middle East but one of the best of his generation. We're looking forward to his FRECA season."

Rashid expressed his pride and determination upon joining the Mercedes-AMG Junior Team:
"I am deeply honoured to join the Mercedes-AMG Junior Team. This is a dream come true, and I am incredibly grateful to Toto Wolff and the entire Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team for their trust in me and this incredible opportunity."

"I will give my absolute best every single day to grow, improve, and make the most of this privilege. I am eager to work with the team’s world-class experts and learn from their unparalleled experience in the sport."

Alongside the Mercedes announcement, Rashid made his GB3 debut with official test sessions at Donington Park and Silverstone. The two-day test at Donington, featuring 19 cars from eight teams, provided Rashid with his first taste of GB3 machinery. He completed approximately 130 laps, focusing on car setup and familiarisation.

Significant progress was made by the end of the second day, with the Emirati driver reporting improvements in both performance and handling.

At Silverstone, Rashid continued his GB3 adaptation, testing on one of motorsport’s most historic circuits. The sessions were largely dry, aside from a wet opening run on the second day—during which Rashid impressed with his pace on rain tyres. These sessions were run as development tests, with a focus on gathering data to support technical progress of the new car.

Rashid returned to Formula Medicine in Viareggio, Italy, continuing a collaboration that dates back to his early karting days. The training centre, led by Dr. Riccardo Ceccarelli, has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several Formula 1 drivers and remains central to Rashid’s preparations for the 2025 Formula Regional European Championship.

Rashid said: "Formula Medicine feels like a second home for me in Italy. I’ve been working with Dr. Riccardo since my early karting days and truly value the journey we’ve shared so far. At Formula Medicine, I’m constantly challenged—both physically and mentally—to push my limits and bring out my very best."

His training includes physical conditioning and MET (Mental Economy Training), with a focus on energy efficiency, concentration, and mental clarity during high-pressure racing environments.

April will see Rashid back on track with FRECA tests scheduled at Barcelona (April 8–9), Misano (April 17–18), and Paul Ricard (April 22–23). He will also participate in a GB3 test at Brands Hatch on April 15 before racing at Silverstone during the GB3 Championship round from April 24–27.

In March, Rashid also welcomed Archirodon as a new sponsor. The engineering and construction company joins an expanding list of partners supporting his journey through the ranks of international motorsport.

With strong backing and a Mercedes Junior Team contract in hand, Rashid enters the European phase of his 2025 season with momentum and growing recognition as a standout young talent.