In a shocking turn of events, Alpine has shut down rumors surrounding Franco Colapinto replacing Jack Doohan at the upcoming Formula 1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. Despite speculation sparked by a major Argentine sponsor, the team is standing firm behind Doohan for the next round of the 2025 season.
Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes unequivocally dismissed the swirling rumors, emphasizing the team’s unwavering support for Doohan. The speculation gained momentum after Horacio Marín, the CEO of Argentina’s state oil company YPF, hinted during a La Nación+ broadcast that Colapinto could take Doohan’s place at Imola, setting social media abuzz and exciting Argentine fans.
Oakes addressed the situation during a press conference in Miami, asserting, “We’ve been pretty open as a team, and that’s just noise out there. Jack needs to continue doing a good job, but I think obviously it’s natural that there’s always that speculation there.”
The potential driver switch stirred up enthusiasm, especially given Colapinto’s surging success in F1 feeder series and his current role as Alpine’s reserve driver. The Argentine driver has garnered a massive following in South America, with many viewing him as the nation’s next racing hero, a sentiment echoed by YPF, a sponsor of both Colapinto and Alpine.
While Marín later clarified his comments, expressing his hope that Colapinto races at Imola and suggesting he would be in touch if it happens, Oakes remained resolute in the team’s stance. He emphasized the need for Doohan to excel in his debut F1 season with Alpine, despite facing challenges and striving to narrow the gap to teammate Pierre Gasly.
Alpine’s declaration of support for Doohan serves as a definitive statement against short-term speculations, reinforcing the team’s commitment to the Australian driver. The spotlight remains on performance on the track, silencing off-air gossip and keeping the focus on the upcoming race.
As the racing world awaits the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, all eyes will be on the Alpine team and Jack Doohan as they aim to tackle the challenges ahead and showcase their determination on the iconic Imola circuit.
