Joshua Dürksen Completes Maiden F1 Test, Makes History for Paraguay

Joshua Dürksen has reached a landmark moment in his motorsport journey by completing his maiden Formula One test at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, Portugal.

The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Development Driver undertook a two-day programme behind the wheel of the team's race-winning W16 E Performance from the 2025 season, gaining invaluable experience as he continues his progression up the motorsport ladder.

The test represents not only a significant personal achievement for the 22-year-old, but also an historic moment for his home nation. Joshua became the first Paraguayan driver to officially be part of an F1 team’s programme earlier this year; he now becomes the first to person from his country to drive a modern Formula One car, breaking new ground for Paraguayan motorsport.

Across two productive days in Portugal, Joshua worked closely with the team's engineers across a comprehensive programme focused on systems understanding and performance runs, while building his experience of F1 machinery. He completed 187 laps, totalling 875 kilometres, equivalent to nearly three total Grand Prix distances.

Joshua said: "This is a day, and a week, that I will remember for the rest of my life. Driving a Formula One car for the first time is something every young driver dreams about, and to do that as the first Paraguayan to reach this milestone makes it even more special.

"I am incredibly grateful to Mercedes for the opportunity and for the trust they have placed in me. So many people have supported me throughout my journey, from my family and sponsors to everyone back home in Paraguay who has followed my career and believed in me.

"Getting behind the wheel of the W16 was an unbelievable experience. The performance, the braking, the cornering speeds: everything is on another level. I learned a huge amount over the two days and enjoyed every lap. I hope this moment can inspire young people in Paraguay to believe that they can compete on the world stage too."

Bradley Lord, Deputy Team Principal commented: "It's always a special moment when a young driver gets their first experience of an F1 car and Joshua has done an excellent job throughout this test.

"He approached the programme with maturity, professionalism and a real desire to learn. Over the two days he worked effectively with the engineering team, developed his confidence progressively and delivered exactly what we were hoping to see from him. This is an important step in his development, and he should be proud of what he has achieved, not only for himself but also for his country."

Joshua has progressed through the junior motorsport ranks and firmly established himself in Formula 2, securing multiple victories and podium finishes while consistently competing at the front of the field.

The Portimão test marks the latest step in his career. Alongside his Formula 2 campaign, he continues his Development Driver responsibilities with the team, supporting simulator development and engineering activities.