Jack Doohan Eyes Super Formula Switch Amid Alpine Exit

Jack Doohan is reportedly exploring a move to Japan's Super Formula Championship for 2026, signaling a potential departure from his F1 aspirations with Alpine. The Australian driver was spotted trackside at the Super GT season finale in Motegi with his father, Mick Doohan, fueling speculation about his next career step.

Why it matters:

Doohan's attendance at the Japanese motorsport event strongly suggests he is looking beyond Formula 1, following Alpine's confirmation that he is no longer in contention for a 2026 F1 race seat. This move could see one of motorsport's promising young talents find a new high-level racing home, showcasing Super Formula's growing appeal for drivers outside the F1 ladder.

The Details:

• Japanese Sighting: Doohan and his father, five-time MotoGP world champion Mick Doohan, were at Mobility Resort Motegi for the final round of the Super GT season, according to AUTOSPORT web.
• Super Formula Interest: The pair were reportedly exploring opportunities for Jack to race in the Super Formula Championship next year, with his Alpine contract expiring at the end of 2025.
• Alpine's Stance: Alpine has narrowed its focus for the second 2026 seat to current driver Franco Colapinto and reserve Paul Aron, effectively closing the door on Doohan's return to their F1 program.
  • Team principal Steve Nielsen previously stated Doohan is "still part of our programme" but gave no indication of a comeback.
• Previous F1 Drive: Doohan started the 2025 season alongside Pierre Gasly but was replaced by Colapinto after six rounds at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
• Super Formula's Appeal: The series has become an attractive option for high-level racing outside F1, offering competitive machinery and a calendar that minimizes clashes with Grand Prix weekends.
• International Interest: Doohan is among several international drivers linked to Super Formula, including F2 frontrunners Leonardo Fornaroli and Richard Verschoor. Two-time WRC champion Kalle Rovanpera has already confirmed his switch to Super Formula for 2026.

What's next:

Doohan's potential move to Super Formula highlights the series as a viable and competitive alternative for drivers seeking top-tier racing outside the traditional F1 pipeline. If he secures a seat, it could mark a significant shift in his career trajectory, allowing him to compete in a highly regarded championship and potentially rebuild his path in motorsport.