Alpine Weighs Driver Change Ahead of Imola Grand Prix
Alpine F1 Team is contemplating a significant driver switch ahead of the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, potentially replacing Jack Doohan with reserve driver Franco Colapinto. This decision comes amidst a disappointing start to the season for the Australian rookie, who has struggled with on-track incidents and inconsistent performances.
Doohan’s recent results have raised eyebrows, especially following his early exit from the Miami Grand Prix after a first-lap collision with Liam Lawson. While the incident was deemed a racing mishap, it added to a growing list of challenges for Doohan, including a major crash during practice in Suzuka. Despite showcasing occasional strong pace—having outqualified teammate Pierre Gasly in Miami—his inability to convert potential into results has put his seat in jeopardy.
So far this season, Alpine has only managed a single points finish, with Gasly’s seventh-place performance in Bahrain standing out as their best result. Now ninth in the constructors’ championship and positioned just above Sauber, the team’s management is under increasing pressure to rethink its driver lineup.
The speculation surrounding Colapinto intensified after comments from YPF CEO Horacio Marin, who suggested Elipinto would be racing in Imola. However, Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes, dismissed these remarks as unsubstantiated, emphasizing that while Doohan remains the driver "as it is today," the team is continuously evaluating its options.
"The noise around Colapinto is natural given the circumstances, but Jack needs to continue performing," Oakes stated.
Colapinto, who joined Alpine as a reserve driver over the offseason, has actively engaged in simulator work and private testing to ensure readiness should he be called up. His debut last year with Williams demonstrated his potential, earning points in Baku and Austin, though he faced challenges, such as significant crashes towards the end of the season.
Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s advisor, is reportedly keen to see Colapinto in the car sooner rather than later, particularly given his backing from sponsors and home country support.
As the team prepares for the triple-header of races commencing in Imola, the decision on whether to replace Doohan will be critical. While logistical factors are not driving the timeframe for a decision, the pressure for results continues to mount.
