Formula 1 Driver Receives Online Threats Leading to Safety Concerns
A shocking revelation has emerged from the Formula 1 world as axed driver Jack Doohan reportedly feared for his safety due to online threats from fans of a rival driver. The tension escalated to the point where Doohan required around-the-clock security while in Miami, with plans to extend the protection to the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix.
The situation unfolded after Alpine decided to replace Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the next five races following Doohan’s non-finish at the Miami Grand Prix. The pressure on Doohan was already intense even before his first F1 session, as Colapinto had been hired as the team’s reserve driver at the start of the year, signaling a clear message that underperformance would not be tolerated.
Photographer Kym Illman shed light on the concerning threats Doohan faced, revealing that a small faction of fans had resorted to sending online threats, causing Doohan, his girlfriend, and even his father to worry about their safety. Illman disclosed, “People had discovered his personal email address and were sending email threats which resulted in Jack, his girlfriend, and even his father holding real concerns for their safety in Miami.”
The turmoil surrounding Doohan’s exit deepened with the resignation of Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes, who was promptly replaced by executive Flavio Briatore. Alpine clarified their decision to rotate Doohan out of the race seat, stating, “As part of an on-going assessment of its driver line-up, the team has made the decision to rotate one of its race seats for the next five rounds of the 2025 FIA Formula One world championship.”
Despite being demoted to reserve driver, Doohan will continue to be a part of the team, serving as the first-choice reserve driver during this period. The team also announced that Colapinto would partner with Pierre Gasly starting from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, with a reassessment planned before the British Grand Prix in July.
The F1 community is left reeling from the shocking turn of events, with Doohan’s safety concerns highlighting the dark side of fan rivalry in the prestigious racing world.
