With Alpine’s new ambitions looming large, Jack Doohan’s place appears fragile, while Franco Colapinto waits patiently, encouraged by Flavio Briatore’s silent stance.
Flavio Briatore suggested that Jack Doohan’s immediate future in Formula 1 may no longer be guaranteed.
At first glance, everything seemed to be going well for the son of MotoGP legend Mick Doohan, after he took over Esteban Ocon’s seat in the Alpine in Abu Dhabi, then followed up with the post-season tests.
“Extremely grateful for the knowledge and experience gained – a day I had dreamed of my whole life,” said Doohan after his Grand Prix debut last weekend.
“A big thank you to the entire Alpine team for the weekend, I could not be happier as I approach my first season in 2025.”
However, as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took place, a rumor circulated in the paddock: the team’s new advisor had only put Doohan in the car to “test” the Australian under pressure.
Related speculation suggested that Briatore was also using Doohan’s situation to pressure Williams’ sponsors and Franco Colapinto.
Williams boss James Vowles has set a mid-December deadline to finalize a possible agreement with Alpine regarding the Argentine’s release.
Auto Hebdo questioned Briatore about the rumors, which could see Doohan replaced by Colapinto in 2025.
“My job is to bring Alpine back to the top,” replied the flamboyant Italian, without denying it. “There is never any room for feelings in Formula 1.”
Colapinto, who is said to have amassed an impressive number of Argentine sponsors, was seen talking with Briatore in Abu Dhabi.
- Discover More>Vowles: Colapinto pushed Albon to raise his game
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates.
Under Briatore’s gaze – Doohan wavers as Colapinto nears Under Briatore’s gaze – Doohan wavers as Colapinto nears
