Franco Colapinto replaces Jack Doohan at Alpine F1 for five races, starting in Imola, amid driver reshuffle and 2026 planning.
Colapinto has been confirmed as Alpine’s second driver alongside Pierre Gasly for the next five Formula 1 Grands Prix, starting in Imola.
Alpine F1 Team announced today that Colapinto will step into the race seat currently held by Jack Doohan as part of the team’s ongoing driver evaluation process. The Argentine driver will compete in five consecutive rounds beginning with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
The decision comes as Alpine looks to refine its driver lineup ahead of major changes planned for the 2026 season. The team has made clear that this is part of a broader assessment strategy, and a new review will take place before the British Grand Prix in July.
Doohan will remain with the team as its primary reserve driver during this time.
Colapinto, who has been part of Alpine’s test and reserve program, will drive the #43 A525. He’ll make his race debut in Imola and follow up with back-to-back races in Monaco, Spain, Canada, and Austria throughout June.
“We’ve taken the decision to run Franco alongside Pierre for the next five races after reviewing the first part of the season,” said Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s Executive Advisor and new Team Principal following Oliver Oakes’ resignation last night.
“This year’s grid is incredibly competitive, and our car has taken a big step forward in performance. That puts us in a position where rotating drivers makes sense as we plan for the future. We need a full and fair evaluation of our talent ahead of 2026. Jack remains an important part of our team and has handled this season with great professionalism. The next five races will give us a chance to try something new and reassess afterward.”
Colapinto expressed his gratitude and excitement:
“I’m incredibly thankful for this opportunity. It’s a big moment for me, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got. I’ve stayed sharp through our testing program and simulator work at Enstone. I know this run of races will be intense, but I’m fully prepared and looking forward to working closely with the team and with Pierre.”
Jack Doohan also shared his thoughts on the transition:
“Achieving my dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver means the world to me, and I’ll always be grateful to Alpine for helping make that happen. Naturally, it’s tough to step back from racing, but I respect the team’s decision and remain committed to our long-term goals. I’ll keep pushing, stay focused, and support the team through this next phase.”
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