Jack Doohan’s Super Formula Nightmare: A Series of Crashes Sparks Controversy!
In a dramatic turn of events following the thrilling conclusion of the F1 2025 season in Abu Dhabi, Jack Doohan, the rising star and Alpine’s reserve driver, has plunged into chaos during a crucial Super Formula testing session at the iconic Suzuka Circuit. The 22-year-old Australian, known for his fierce ambition to return to Formula 1, faced relentless challenges as he joined the ranks of Kondo Racing, a Toyota-supported team that struggled to make a mark this year.
Doohan’s recent three-day test at Suzuka quickly spiraled into a nightmare as he endured a staggering trio of crashes that have left motorsport enthusiasts buzzing. Reports indicate that the driver tested both of Kondo Racing’s cars while experimenting with various setups, but the results were far from promising. The young talent’s car consistently struggled with front-end stability, causing a harrowing bounce as he attacked the notorious kerbing at Degner 1. This relentless battle to maintain control ultimately led to not one, but three incidents, raising eyebrows about his ability to handle the Dallara SF23.
Despite the setbacks, Kondo Racing team principal Nobuaki Adachi attempted to put a positive spin on the situation. “Both Luke [Browning] and Jack performed very well,” he assured Motorsport.com, adding, “It just so happened that Jack had a series of crashes, but he is a driver with a lot of potential.” Adachi’s optimism, however, did little to mask the reality of the circumstances, and the question on everyone’s mind remains: Can Doohan bounce back?
Kondo Racing’s performance this season has been underwhelming, with the team landing a disappointing seventh in the standings and securing only a single podium finish. Doohan’s decision to join this lesser-known squad instead of more established Toyota teams like TOM’S and KCMG was a late gamble, driven by the urgency to secure a competitive seat in Japan. With F1 aspirations burning bright, Doohan views this stint as vital for maintaining race sharpness, especially since he has not competed since the Miami Grand Prix.
As discussions about his Super Formula future intensify, it appears that Doohan’s connection with Alpine is standing in the way of a definitive deal for the 2026 season. Speculation suggests that his spot at Alpine may soon be taken by F2 contender Alex Dunne, leaving Doohan in a precarious position. However, sources indicate that a potential shift to Super Formula is essential for his ambitions to land a reserve driver role with Haas for the upcoming F1 season.
In a bold move, Toyota is amplifying its involvement with the Haas F1 team, aiming to cultivate a generation of Japanese talent in the world of motorsport. The collaboration seeks to enhance the automotive industry while giving young drivers and engineers the chance to thrive in the fierce world of Formula 1. Jack Doohan’s journey is intricately linked to this vision, and as he navigates the tumultuous waters of Super Formula, the stakes have never been higher.
With the eyes of the motorsport world watching closely, will Jack Doohan rise from the ashes of his crashes, or will this turbulent chapter define his journey? The next test at Suzuka may hold the key to his future, and fans are eager to see if he can turn the tide on his racing career!
