Joshua Durksen has reached a landmark moment in his motorsport journey by completing his maiden F1 test at Portimao.

The Mercedes development driver undertook a two-day programme behind the wheel of the race-winning W16 E 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. Durksen 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, Durksen 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.

"This is a day, and a week, that I will remember for the rest of my life," he said. "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."

"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," said Bradley Lord, Deputy Team Principal.

"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."

Durksen 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. He is currently 7th in the 2026 standings.

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