Jack Doohan's F1 Pathway Emerges Through Haas-Toyota 2026 Alliance

Jack Doohan's path back to Formula 1 appears to be taking shape through a deepening alliance between Haas and Toyota, with the Australian driver positioning himself for a potential 2027 race seat contingent on securing a 2026 reserve role. After being dropped by Alpine midway through 2025, Doohan is now pursuing a Super Formula program in Japan with Toyota support while working toward formal release from his Alpine contract, which technically runs until 2026.

Why it matters:

This potential partnership reflects Formula 1's evolving ecosystem where manufacturer relationships increasingly dictate driver opportunities. Toyota's expanding involvement with Haas—including title branding for 2026 and possible future equity stakes—creates a strategic pathway for drivers aligned with the Japanese giant. For Doohan, this represents a critical second chance after his abrupt Alpine exit, while Haas gains access to Toyota's technical resources and potential financial stability.

The details:

• Doohan is scheduled to participate in this week's Super Formula rookie test at Suzuka with Toyota backing, aiming to secure a full grid spot for 2026 as part of his F1 comeback strategy.
• Haas is understood to be finalizing Doohan's appointment as reserve driver for 2026, contingent on Alpine granting his release. This would position him perfectly for a race seat if either Esteban Ocon or Oliver Bearman departs after 2026.
• Toyota's growing influence: The Japanese manufacturer has been using Haas' test program (TPC) to upskill staff, with plans to expand the relationship through title sponsorship next year. Industry sources suggest Toyota could eventually take a minority stake in Haas, potentially creating an orderly transition from team owner Gene Haas.
• Prize money calculus: Haas' current position—fighting to secure seventh in the 2025 constructors' championship—directly impacts this strategy. Seventh place would yield approximately $80 million in 2026 prize money versus $69 million for ninth, providing crucial resources for driver programs and technical development.
• Doohan's management shift from Alpine boss Flavio Briatore to new representation has facilitated these negotiations, removing potential conflicts of interest with his former team.

What's next:

Doohan's immediate focus is securing Alpine's release to finalize both his Super Formula participation and Haas reserve role within weeks. The Suzuka test will serve as his proving ground for Japanese racing authorities while demonstrating value to Toyota.

The broader implications hinge on Haas' performance in the final 2025 races. A seventh-place finish would strengthen their financial position for 2026 while validating Toyota's investment. If the partnership evolves toward equity participation as rumored, it could establish a new model for manufacturer involvement in F1—particularly for brands without full works teams.

For Doohan, success means transforming this reserve role into a guaranteed 2027 seat. His performance in Super Formula and TPC outings will be critical evaluation points for both Haas and Toyota. The timeline remains tight, but this structured pathway represents the most viable F1 return scenario for the 22-year-old since his Alpine departure.