Alpine has decided to replace Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the upcoming five Formula 1 races, beginning with the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. The team described this move as a “rotation” of drivers in their second car alongside Pierre Gasly.
Colapinto`s performance will be assessed after these five events, specifically before the British Grand Prix in July. This arrangement potentially leaves the door open for Doohan`s return to the seat later in the season.
According to Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore, the decision was made after reviewing the initial races of the season. He stated that due to the competitive nature of the current field and improvements in the car over the past year, the team felt a rotation was necessary.
Briatore also highlighted the importance of conducting a thorough and fair evaluation of drivers this season in preparation for the significant rule changes in 2026. He added that the team continues to support Doohan, praising his professional conduct so far, and that this period allows them to try a different approach before re-evaluating their options.
Doohan`s long-term position at Alpine had faced uncertainty, particularly since Franco Colapinto joined the team as a reserve driver in January. Colapinto gained significant attention last year by impressing when he substituted for Logan Sargeant in nine races for Williams.
Williams loaned Colapinto to Alpine this year with the expectation that he would gain further race experience.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Colapinto said he would work diligently with the team to prepare for the intense upcoming races, including the demanding triple-header. He mentioned staying prepared through the team`s testing and simulator programs and is focused on quickly getting up to speed to deliver the best possible results alongside Pierre Gasly.
In his five races this year, Doohan reportedly encountered difficulties, including several incidents, and did not consistently match the performance levels of his teammate, Pierre Gasly, in qualifying or races.
Jack Doohan acknowledged the difficulty of accepting the decision, stating that as a professional driver he naturally wants to compete. He expressed pride in achieving his F1 ambition and gratitude to Alpine for their support.
Doohan affirmed his continued commitment to supporting the team`s long-term objectives and pledged to keep working hard, watch the upcoming races with interest, and continue pursuing his personal goals.
This driver change follows recent management shifts at Alpine, including the immediate resignation of team principal Oliver Oakes on Tuesday. Flavio Briatore is currently taking over Oakes` responsibilities. Interestingly, Oakes had indicated just days earlier at the Miami Grand Prix that the plan was for Doohan to race at Imola.
Dominic Ashworth