Mercedes has announced its 2026 junior programme roster, marking the 10th anniversary of the initiative with nine young drivers from karting to Formula Regional. The programme adds karting prospects Niccolò Perico and Devin Titz to the lineup. It continues to nurture talents like George Russell and Kimi Antonelli who have reached Formula 1.
Mercedes-AMG F1 Team has unveiled its junior programme for 2026, selecting nine drivers spanning karting through to the Formula Regional European Championship. This announcement coincides with the programme's 10th anniversary, highlighting a decade of developing talent that has produced Formula 1 drivers such as George Russell, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Frederik Vesti and Doriane Pin.
The roster includes:
- Rashid Al Dhaheri (17, Emirati, Formula Regional)
- Ethan Jeff-Hall (17, British, British F4)
- Andy Consani (16, French, Italian F4 and Euro4)
- Luna Fluxá (15, Spanish, Spanish F4)
- Kenzo Craigie (15, British, Italian F4 and Euro4)
- James Anagnostiadis (15, Australian, OK and KZ2 karting)
- Many Nuvolini (12, French, OK Junior)
- Devin Titz (11, German, Mini karting)
- Niccolò Perico (11, Italian, OK NG)
Gwen Lagrue, driver development advisor, emphasized the programme's impact: “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.” She added that the initiative focuses on excellence, with continuous refinement in support methods aimed at performance and championships.
George Russell, a beneficiary of the programme, reflected: “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.” Kimi Antonelli noted: “Being part of the Junior Program is an incredible opportunity... It’s been an incredible journey.”
Bradley Lord, team representative, stated: “Our Junior Program is built around one principle: to support a very select group of drivers who have the talent and character to succeed.” The drivers expressed gratitude and determination, with newcomers like Titz saying: “It is truly a dream come true to represent the Mercedes-AMG F1 Junior Programme as a German driver.”
This global group reflects Mercedes' commitment to diverse talent, providing tools and guidance for their development in 2026.
