Mercedes has recruited 2023 Formula 2 champion Theo Pourchaire as a development driver ahead of the new Formula 1 season.
The 22-year-old Frenchman strengthens the Brackley squad’s simulator and testing pool as preparations continue for the Melbourne opener.
He joins a group that includes Doriane Pin, Joshua Durksen, and former F1 racer Anthony Davidson, who combines the role with his broadcasting duties at Sky Sports F1.
Fred Vesti, who went head-to-head with Pourchaire in their closely contested F2 title fight, remains in place as Mercedes’ third driver.
The Dane will continue to support race drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli across the campaign.
Pourchaire built a strong reputation on the junior ladder but did not secure a full-time F1 opportunity during his spell with the Sauber Academy.
Despite lifting the F2 crown, a step up to the grid failed to materialise.
He briefly switched to IndyCar in 2024 with McLaren. However, that programme ended after only a handful of appearances, with Nolan Siegel taking over the seat.
Since then, Pourchaire has redirected his focus towards endurance racing.
He linked up with Peugeot as a reserve in the World Endurance Championship before gaining further mileage with Algarve Pro Racing in the European Le Mans Series, including an outing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
For the current season, he holds a full-time WEC drive with Peugeot, sharing the car with Formula E driver Nick Cassidy and ex-F1 competitor Paul di Resta.
Mercedes’ announcement follows confirmation of its refreshed junior roster.
The programme features nine drivers, led by 17-year-olds Rashid Al Dhaheri and Ethan Jeff-Hall, who are set to compete in Formula Regional and British F4, respectively, in 2026.
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