A web of speculation is being spun around the future of Alpine’s driver, Jack Doohan, and it’s the Formula One team itself that is at the heart of the intrigue. Oliver Oakes, the team principal, admits that Alpine has been instrumental in generating the buzz around the potential replacement of Doohan by reserve driver Franco Colapinto. This admission comes amidst a flurry of rumors suggesting that Doohan, the son of renowned Australian motorcyclist Mick Doohan, might have to vacate his seat for Colapinto during the F1 2025 season.
In his debut F1 race in 2024, Doohan made a premature exit after a crash in the first lap of his home race in Australia. Despite this setback, Doohan showcased his prowess during the qualifying rounds, outpacing his established team-mate, Pierre Gasly. However, his promising run was cut short by a yellow flag due to Lewis Hamilton’s spinning Ferrari, leaving him at the 14th position on the grid.
Doohan’s commendable performance couldn’t have come at a more critical time. His contract is reported to cover only the first few races of the new season, making his future with the team uncertain. Colapinto, who won over many fans during his nine-race stint with Williams last season, was signed on as one of Alpine’s four reserve drivers in January. This sparked further speculation about a possible mid-season swap.
Despite the rumors, Doohan’s continued presence in the 2025 season will be determined by his performance, the same criterion applied to all F1 drivers. Flavio Briatore, Alpine executive adviser and alleged manager of Doohan, has conspicuously refrained from denying the rumors of Doohan’s potential replacement.
Oakes confessed that Alpine’s openness about the situation has amplified the scrutiny on Doohan. He highlighted the team’s responsibility to make decisions that benefit its 900 members, even if it led to unsettling ‘noise’ about Doohan’s future. He also sympathized with Doohan, acknowledging that the team could have handled the situation better.
Oakes was particularly impressed by Doohan’s performance at his home race, considering the pressure he was under. He lauded Doohan’s handling of the attention and his performance during the high-pressure moments in qualifying. He asserted that Doohan’s capability was never in doubt, but his temperament under pressure was a pleasant surprise.
The Alpine team principal emphasized that Doohan needs to prove his worth on the track, rather than relying on support from the team. He commended Doohan’s professionalism and positive attitude during this challenging period. Oakes believes that these qualities, along with his ability to handle pressure and quickly recover from setbacks, are Doohan’s biggest assets.
Oakes also cautioned that the path ahead might not be smooth for the rookies like Doohan, especially at the Chinese Grand Prix, a track they are not familiar with. However, he expressed hope that things would ease up as the season progresses.
The future of Jack Doohan in the F1 2025 season is uncertain, but he has the opportunity to silence the rumors by performing on the track. The coming weeks will reveal whether Doohan can rise to the challenge and secure his spot in the high-stakes world of Formula One.
