Joshua Dürksen completes first F1 test with Mercedes

Mercedes development driver Joshua Dürksen recently completed his first Formula 1 test, driving the Mercedes W16 at Portimão. The event marked the first time a Paraguayan driver has piloted a modern F1 car.

Following the test, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña held a call with Dürksen to offer congratulations. The President described the achievement as a dream realized for millions of Paraguayans. Dürksen noted that his success sends a message to his people that they are capable of achieving great things despite coming from a small nation.

Dürksen, who has German roots and is fluent in German, has navigated a dual identity in his career. While he initially raced under the German flag to secure support from organizations like ADAC Brandenburg, he later switched to representing Paraguay as interest and sponsorship from his home country grew. He expressed a desire to act as a bridge between both nations as he pursues a permanent seat in Formula 1.