Alpine Weighs Driver Change as Doohan Struggles Continue
Imola, Italy—Alpine F1 Team is considering a significant shake-up ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, with Franco Colapinto potentially replacing Jack Doohan. This decision follows a series of underwhelming performances from the rookie Australian driver, raising questions about his future with the team.
Doohan’s promotion to a race seat came during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last season, yet his early tenure has been marred by inconsistency. While the 21-year-old Colapinto has drawn attention for his impressive performances in the Williams junior program, his potential loan to Alpine was confirmed by Williams team principal James Vowles, highlighting expectations for a future role.
Sources within RACER suggest that Alpine is evaluating this driver switch as they prepare for the European season. Should Colapinto take the helm at Imola, it would follow a rocky start to the season for Doohan, who has failed to score points and has faced two significant crashes—first in Australia and again in practice at Suzuka.
After being eliminated in SQ1 during the Miami Grand Prix, Doohan expressed frustration over factors beyond his control. Despite achieving his first qualifying edge over teammate Pierre Gasly, a collision on the first corner derailed his race.
“Unfortunately, the things that have gone wrong this weekend have been outside of my control,” Doohan stated. “But you always have to reflect and see if there’s anything I could have done better.”
Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes, reiterated support for Doohan, stating, “As it is today, Jack is our driver along with Pierre.” However, with the team currently sitting ninth in the constructors’ championship, all points attributed to Gasly, the pressure is mounting for a change.
Historically, Colapinto has performed well, scoring five points in nine races with Williams last year. As the team weighs its options, the decision for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix could reshape the trajectory of both drivers’ seasons.
