First Middle Eastern Driver to Join the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Team
Abu Dhabi/Brackley (UK), 7th March 2025
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Team has announced that Emirati driver Rashid Al Dhaheri joins its Junior Team, making him the first Middle Eastern driver to be selected for this prestigious F1 development initiative. This historic milestone marks a significant moment in UAE sporting history, reflecting the growing global diversity within Formula 1.
Al Dhaheri, the UAE’s rising motorsport star, has consistently demonstrated talent and exceptional determination, and work ethic throughout his karting and junior racing career. Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS has followed his progress, recognizing Al Dhaheri’s potential. By welcoming Al Dhaheri into its Junior Program, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS will nurture his growth with the expertise of a multiple-time world champion team, providing Al Dhaheri with an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate his career.
Expressing his gratitude, Al Dhaheri shared his excitement: “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.”
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Junior Driver Program is renowned for its commitment to developing young racing talent, combining state-of-the-art facilities, technical expertise, and motorsport experience. The program has a proven track record of preparing drivers for the highest levels of competition, as demonstrated by the recent promotion of Kimi Antonelli, who was announced as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement for the upcoming Formula 1 season.
Al Dhaheri’s inclusion further underscores Mercedes’ dedication to identifying and nurturing the next generation of racing talent.
Al Dhaheri’s journey embodies his “anything-is-possible” vision, proudly representing the UAE on the global motorsport stage while also serving as an inspiration for future generations to work hard, never give up, and pursue their goals. With the support and mentorship of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS, he is poised to make a lasting impact on UAE’s sport scene and continue his ascent toward the pinnacle of racing.