Jack Doohan is gearing up for his debut season in Formula 1 and is determined to prove himself at Alpine. The Australian’s comments come in response to speculation about his future, which arose following the arrival of test and reserve driver Franco Colapinto.
Action Sooner Than Expected
Alpine announced in August that Doohan would make the move in 2025, where he would replace the departing Esteban Ocon and become Pierre Gasly’s teammate. However, Ocon left the team before the 2024 season finale, which led to Doohan making his debut earlier than planned at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. He finished the race in fifteenth place.
Future Under Pressure?
Although the young Australian is fully focused on his first year as a permanent Formula 1 driver, questions about his future at Alpine quickly surfaced. The team recently brought in Franco Colapinto as a test and reserve driver with a multi-year contract, leading to speculation about Doohan’s position. However, team boss Oliver Oakes has emphasized that Doohan will be given a fair chance to prove himself. He states that Colapinto’s arrival is primarily intended to provide the team with multiple options in the long term, not to put additional pressure on Doohan.
At the Autosport Awards in London, Doohan was asked about his motivation to start the season and secure his place in the sport. “This is what I’ve been working towards all these years,” he told Sky Sports. “It’s super special to be one of the twenty drivers on the grid. I’m looking forward to earning my place in the sport,” said the Australian, who is set to make his Formula 1 debut this year alongside an impressive batch of rookies.
