Mercedes announces 2026 Junior Programme as academy marks 10 year milestone

The announcement comes in the 10th anniversary year of the programme, which the Brackley based squad says reflects a decade of identifying and developing young talent.

The pathway’s success is visible at the very top. George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will lead the team’s Formula 1 driver line up in 2026, both graduates of the scheme. Fellow alumni Fred Vesti and Doriane Pin step into roles as Third Driver and Development Driver respectively.

The 2026 intake spans multiple categories and nationalities. Rashid Al Dhaheri, Ethan Jeff-Hall, Andy Consani, Luna Fluxa, Kenzo Craigie, James Anagnostiadis, Many Nuvolini, Devin Titz and Niccolò Perico form the roster for the new season.

Driver Development Advisor Gwen Lagrue highlighted the significance of the anniversary: “2026 marks the 10th anniversary of our Junior Programme, a milestone that reflects a decade of identifying, developing and promoting outstanding talent.

“Over the years, the programme has supported and nurtured drivers such as George Russell, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Frederik Vesti and Doriane Pin, guiding them on their path to the highest level of our sport. Our 2026 Formula 1 line up is entirely composed of drivers who have emerged from our own programme, which is a source of great pride and satisfaction for all of us.

“It demonstrates the strength of our philosophy and sets a clear example for the next generation within our ranks. I am certain that our young drivers will draw inspiration and motivation from this pathway.

“For these young drivers, as well as for my team and myself, excellence is the standard. We continuously refine and improve our methods of support and development, always with performance, victories and championships as the ultimate objective. I sincerely hope that 2026 will be marked with success, allowing us to celebrate this 10th anniversary in the best possible way.”

Russell underlined the role the programme played in his rise: “The team's Junior Programme has massively helped me throughout my journey both to, and in F1. I genuinely wouldn't be here today without the support from the very top, from Toto, from Gwen, and from so many people in the team who've backed me.

“What's special about Mercedes is that they fuel your potential. They encourage you to go out there, give everything, and trust that you have what it takes. Being part of the Junior Programme meant so much to me. Wearing the star for the first time was a really special moment, and it's something you wear with pride.”

Antonelli added: “Being part of the Junior Programme is an incredible opportunity and it doesn't come around every day. Be grateful but remember there's a reason you were chosen. Make the most out of it.

“The Junior Programme gave me huge support on and off the track. I had everything I needed to develop and improve. It's been an incredible journey and this season's Juniors will for sure enjoy it as much as I did.”

Team Representative Bradley Lord said the academy remains focused on selectivity and performance: “Our Junior Programme is built around one principle: to support a very select group of drivers who have the talent and character to succeed.

“Each of these drivers has shown real promise, and we provide the support and the environment for them to continue learning and growing. There are no guarantees in this sport in terms of reaching the very top, but we're excited to see what they'll achieve in 2026.”

As Mercedes enters a new regulatory era in Formula 1, its academy structure continues to serve as a central pillar of its long term competitive strategy.