The chapter between Jack Doohan and the Alpine team ends with a bang. After years of collaboration within the Alpine Academy, the Australian driver and the Enstone team have decided to terminate their contract. The promise of a career in Formula 1 has turned into a complicated reality, marked by bold strategic choices.
A promising journey
Jack Doohan, a young talent in motorsport, made his entry into the world of Formula 1 after an impressive stint in Formula 2. A member of the Alpine Academy, he was supported by the team’s development programme, which allowed him to build a solid reputation on the circuits. In 2024, he finally had the long-awaited opportunity to make his Formula 1 debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, replacing Esteban Ocon. This first experience, although promising, will unfortunately not be followed by a similarly glorious continuation.
A chaotic 2025 season
Set to be a full-time driver in 2025, Doohan found himself in a difficult situation. With the arrival of new drivers, including Franco Colapinto, the pressure intensified on the rookie. The early races of the season revealed a colossal challenge for the Australian driver, who struggled to assert himself against his competitors. In seven Grands Prix, his best performance was only a modest 13th place in Shanghai, foreshadowing dark days for someone who had hoped to shine in the top category.
An uncertain future
After a rocky start, Jack Doohan was replaced by Franco Colapinto starting from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. This marked a decisive turning point in his career, relegating him to the role of reserve driver with no hope of returning to a race seat for the remainder of the season. However, the story does not end there. Rumours are circulating about a possible transition to Japan, in Super Formula, where he recently participated in tests. This change of direction could well be the key to revitalising his career.
Alpine’s words
In an official statement, BWT Alpine Formula One Team declared: “We have reached a mutual agreement with Jack Doohan not to continue our collaboration as a driver for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship season. This will allow him to seize other career opportunities.” The team also wished to express its gratitude towards the young driver: “Jack became the first member of the Alpine Academy to secure a race seat within the team when he made his Grand Prix debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2024. The team would like to thank Jack for his commitment and professionalism over the past four years, both on and off the track, and wishes him the best for the future.”
Reflections on Doohan’s career
This departure marks a bitter end for Jack Doohan, but also an opportunity for a rebound. In the ruthless world of Formula 1, each season brings its share of challenges, but also new possibilities. Alpine’s strategic decisions, although controversial, illustrate the dynamic and competitive nature of the sport. The Australian driver will now have to prove that he can rise again and make his mark elsewhere, while hoping that this separation is merely a springboard to a better future.
As eyes turn to the next season, the world of Formula 1 can only wonder: what will be the next chapter for Jack Doohan? To keep up with all the news from the teams and drivers, feel free to check out our articles on Formula 1.
