Alpine F1 Team Boss Breaks Silence on Jack Doohan’s Future Amid Replacement Speculations
The Alpine Formula 1 team is facing intense speculation about the future of driver Jack Doohan, with rumors swirling that he might be replaced soon. Team principal Oliver Oakes, who took over the role after Bruno Famin’s departure, addressed the ongoing chatter about a potential driver swap involving Doohan. After Doohan’s challenging weekend and a significant crash during practice in Suzuka, Oakes hinted at the possibility of a mid-season change, stating, “There’s a little bit of noise that’s for sure, but he’s been doing a very good job.”
As questions loom over Doohan’s position within the team, Oakes praised the young driver for staying focused amidst the rumors. With the spotlight on Doohan following his crash at Suzuka, where driver error was confirmed as the cause, the team is evaluating its options for the remainder of the 2025 season. The recent trend in bold driver changes, exemplified by Red Bull’s decision to demote Liam Lawson in favor of Yuki Tsunoda, has raised speculation about potential moves within Alpine.
During the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, Doohan faced setbacks, including missing FP1 and finishing in P15 in the main race. His performance has sparked discussions about the team’s lineup, especially with reserve driver Franco Colapinto expressing his readiness to step in if an opportunity arises. Colapinto’s determination to secure a spot on the main grid adds another layer of complexity to Alpine’s driver considerations.
While Oakes is currently at the helm of Alpine’s decision-making, executive advisor Flavio Briatore plays a significant role in driver contracts. Briatore’s praise for Colapinto, whom he signed from Williams’ ranks, indicates a potential shake-up in the team’s driver lineup. As the F1 season progresses, all eyes are on Alpine to see how they navigate the speculation surrounding Jack Doohan’s future and the possibility of a driver switch in the midst of a competitive field.
In other F1 news, the FIA’s announcement of inspections and summoning of two teams ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix has added to the drama and intrigue surrounding the upcoming race.
