Jack Doohan: I'm looking forward to consolidating my place here for the future
The Australian driver will begin his F1 adventure in a tense climate following statements made by Flavio Briatore. The Italian said that Alpine's driver line-up could change before the end of the season. However, the former Formula 2 driver is determined to keep his place.
Changes already at Alpine? Even though the season has not yet started, several statements have already stirred up the French team. While Pierre Gasly seems assured of keeping his place in the Enstone team, the situation is not the same for his new teammate Jack Doohan. Flavio Briatore, Alpine's new executive advisor, stated that the Australian is not assured of finishing the season and could be replaced by Franco Colapinto, recently recruited as a reserve driver. Some rumors even suggest that the former F2 driver would have five races to convince Alpine to keep him and that after that, they might decide to part ways with him.
Colapinto to replace Doohan?
His replacement: Franco Colapinto. The Argentinian, who replaced Logan Sargeant at Williams starting from the Italian Grand Prix, impressed the F1 paddock and notably Flavio Briatore, who decided to recruit him as a reserve driver for the 2025 season. Moreover, this recruitment is significant in a context where Jack Doohan has just arrived and Alpine is looking for a talented driver to support Pierre Gasly. "The only thing we can be sure of is death," declared the Italian in the columns of Le Parisien. "We will start the year with Pierre and Jack, I can guarantee you that. After that, we'll see how the season evolves."
Despite all these rumors, Oliver Oakes, head of Alpine, sought to calm the situation around the Australian driver and stated that he will have time to prove his talent. « It has been a bit tough for Jack, some things written by 'keyboard warriors' were unfair, but he will get his chance. I think the goal is not to put pressure on his shoulders, but rather to give the team options for the future. » Nevertheless, the former Hitech manager in Formula 2 leaves the door open for potential changes in the driver duo.
« In F1, everything depends on details. Many people rely on a driver to deliver performances every weekend, and we must ensure we have the best drivers in the car, not only for the present but also for the future. » Jack Doohan's reaction was therefore highly anticipated.
Jack Doohan, ready to fight to keep his seat
Faced with all these statements, Jack Doohan affirmed his position: he will do everything to keep his seat. "I am very motivated," he stated to Sky F1. "I just can't wait to be on track, doing my job with my hands and feet, and driving this car as best as I can. I've watched these guys since I was a kid, especially Lewis [Hamilton]. Being one of the 20 drivers on the grid is something super special. I look forward to consolidating my place here for the future."
The pressure is already high for the Australian. His debut in Formula 1 will undoubtedly be anticipated and closely watched, especially since it takes place in his home country. If the results do not come quickly, a driver change could occur even before the middle of the season, making the 2025 season more unpredictable than ever.
