The reserve driver for the Alpine F1 team, who hopes to move up in the future, has been patiently waiting for his chance to shine. For a driver, track time is valuable and crucial for their development.
During a two-day test at the Zandvoort Circuit, the location of the Dutch Grand Prix, Doohan had the opportunity to drive the Alpine A522, which was previously used by Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon in the 2022 F1 season. This test was part of the team’s 2024 Previous Cars Testing (PCT) program.
The team stated that the test lasted two days, allowing both Doohan and the Race Support Team to familiarize themselves with the challenging 2022 car. In addition to providing on-track support, simulator support, and marketing support, Doohan’s testing program is an important aspect of his role as the team’s official Reserve Driver.
Reflecting on his experience driving the current era F1 car, Doohan expressed his excitement at being back on track with the A522 at Zandvoort. He emphasized the importance of this test in terms of learning and adapting for both the team and himself to the modern machinery. The weather conditions were favorable, and Doohan expressed his gratitude to the team for their hard work and support during the test. He eagerly awaits future opportunities to drive with the team at Silverstone.
This test at Zandvoort was Doohan’s second F1 test this season. He had already driven the race-winning A521 in Barcelona in February. His first experience with the A522 came during his debut at a Grand Prix weekend at the 2022 Mexican Grand Prix, where he participated in FP1. He also had the chance to drive the car again during FP1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which marked the end of the season.
As for Doohan’s future, it is likely that he will be considered for a spot on the Alpine team if Gasly or Ocon leave or are released. As the only team with Renault engines, Alpine does not have customer teams that can offer Doohan a spot. In the end, time will tell whether he will secure a place on the grid for the 2025 F1 season.
