Jack Doohan's F1 Dreams Fading as Franco Colapinto Nears Alpine 2026 Seat
Summary
Jack Doohan's Formula 1 aspirations with Alpine are dimming as reports suggest Franco Colapinto is set to secure the second 2026 seat alongside Pierre Gasly. This move, expected to be announced in Brazil, would likely push Doohan towards a Super Formula career in Japan. Alpine is undergoing a major overhaul, including a switch to Mercedes power units for 2026, as it looks to rebound from its current last-place standing in the Constructors' Championship. The decision marks a critical juncture for both drivers and the team's future direction.
Jack Doohan's Formula 1 aspirations with Alpine appear to be nearing an end as reports indicate Franco Colapinto is set to be announced as Pierre Gasly's teammate for the 2026 season. This development could push Doohan towards a Super Formula move in Japan, as his role within the Enstone team diminishes.
Why it matters:
- This announcement signifies a significant shake-up in Alpine's driver lineup for the critical 2026 season, marking a clear direction for the team under new leadership and a shift to Mercedes power units.
- For Doohan, it represents a potential end to his long-standing connection with Alpine and a pivot in his career trajectory, likely outside of F1 for the immediate future.
- The decision to back Colapinto reflects Alpine's strategic choices for their future, potentially favoring his recent performances and long-term potential.
The Details:
- Colapinto's Ascent: RacingNews365 has reported that Alpine is poised to confirm Franco Colapinto for the second seat alongside Pierre Gasly for the 2026 F1 season. This move effectively ends Doohan's hopes of returning to a full-time seat he briefly held.
- Imminent Announcement: Colapinto's formal announcement is anticipated this weekend during the Brazilian Grand Prix, solidifying his future with the French outfit.
- Doohan's Outlook: With Colapinto's promotion, Jack Doohan's time as an Alpine F1 contender is unofficially drawing to a close. He has been serving as a reserve driver since being demoted in May, but his future with the team has been uncertain since January, particularly after Flavio Briatore signed Colapinto from Williams as a reserve.
- Super Formula Links: The Australian driver has been linked with a potential move to Japan's Super Formula series. While there's mutual interest in a deal, no concrete agreement has been reported yet.
- Alpine's Overhaul: Beyond the driver lineup, Alpine is undergoing significant changes for 2026. The team will transition from a works Renault engine supply to a customer Mercedes deal under new team boss Steve Nielsen, signaling a major strategic shift.
- Current Performance: Alpine is currently struggling, sitting last in the 2025 Constructors' Championship with only 20 points, all scored by Gasly. Neither Colapinto nor Doohan has contributed points this season.
What's next:
Colapinto's official announcement in Brazil will confirm Alpine's driver pairing for 2026, setting the stage for their future strategy. For Doohan, the focus will shift to securing a competitive drive in Super Formula or exploring other motorsport avenues to keep his F1 hopes alive in the long term.
Original Article :https://racingnews365.com/jack-doohan-set-for-major-repercussions-with-impending...