Jack Doohan’s future with Alpine is in doubt, with rising pressure and rumors swirling ahead of the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix.
The pressure on Jack Doohan continues to mount, especially with recent developments surrounding Franco Colapinto’s F1 testing with Alpine at Monza.
Colapinto, a Williams reserve driver, has been given praise for his commitment, though he notably missed the Japanese Grand Prix. The reason for his absence was later revealed: he was hard at work in Alpine’s factory simulator throughout the weekend before heading to Italy to test the 2023 Alpine F1 car.
Many believe Doohan’s current position is precarious, with some speculating that he is on a six-race contract following a dramatic crash during testing at Suzuka, where he failed to make the first corner with the DRS open.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher has cast doubt on Doohan’s future, suggesting the Australian may not make it past the next few races. He commented on growing rumors that Colapinto might soon take over Doohan’s seat, stating, “This rumor is fueled by his own team, but also by his performances.”
“Doohan has been making a lot of mistakes and hasn’t been fast enough. We saw Ryo Hirakawa in the car during the first free practice session, and he was on pace with Pierre Gasly. Then Doohan got in and made that massive error.”
“For now, he’s struggling with the situation. I’m curious to see how it plays out, but based on what I know, he may not even be racing in Bahrain.”
These rumors have been amplified by Alpine’s advisor, Flavio Briatore, while team principal Oliver Oakes has attempted to downplay them. “He’s staying,” Oakes confirmed when asked about Doohan’s future with the team.
“It’s a clear yes. He’s with us. He’s under a lot of pressure, but he’s handling it well. My message is to leave him alone.”
As for Colapinto, he is eager for an opportunity with Alpine and has acknowledged that he’s ready for a move soon. “I’m an Alpine driver,” he said. “I have a contract with them. I’m working hard, and I hope for an opportunity with the team. They’ve done everything to recruit me, so I don’t think it’s to be a reserve driver for years.”
Injured After the Japanese GP, Will Doohan Be Fit to Race in Bahrain?
“The driver is under medical observation.”
Jack Doohan’s situation is far from straightforward, with images showing him struggling to exit his Alpine F1 cockpit after the Japanese Grand Prix.
Amid ongoing rumors about a potential replacement by Franco Colapinto, the Australian rookie was severely injured during the free practice sessions at Suzuka. Speculation had been circulating that Doohan had hurt his left arm and hand, and this has since been confirmed.
In fact, an Alpine F1 mechanic, along with Esteban Ocon (from Haas), had to assist Doohan in exiting the car after the race, as he was unable to use his left arm.
To make matters worse, while Doohan was having difficulties in Japan, Colapinto – a clear favorite of Alpine’s advisor Flavio Briatore – was testing a 2023 car at Monza.
Colapinto was half a second faster than fellow reserve driver Paul Aron on a single lap and seven-tenths quicker in race pace.
Former F1 driver Christijan Albers expressed his sympathy for Doohan’s challenging situation.
“It’s a really tough situation, and I don’t like it,” said Albers. “It’s his F1 debut, and all he wants to do is focus. But he’s not having fun with all the pressure. Everyone assumes F1 is just about enjoying yourself, but it’s not like that. The pressure starts on day one, and for Doohan, it’s huge.”
“The rumors that he could be replaced after just a few races also tie into Colapinto’s sponsors pushing Briatore to get him into F1 as soon as possible. That’s going to be the deciding factor.”
Doohan left Suzuka on Sunday night feeling “slightly” injured, but he remained optimistic about being on the starting grid in Bahrain.
“I’ll take a few days to rest and recover. It’s nothing serious, just a small issue. I’m looking forward to racing in Bahrain, where the conditions will be completely different.”
While Alpine F1 has not commented on Doohan’s health following the Grand Prix, the driver is currently under medical observation during his recovery. Franco Colapinto is the designated reserve driver for the upcoming weekend, should the need arise.
- Explore Further>Pirelli Denies ‘Boring’ GP, Applauds Drivers’ Final Push
- Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 updates
Doohan Faces Uncertain Future at Bahrain GP Amid Pressure Doohan Faces Uncertain Future at Bahrain GP Amid Pressure