Alpine F1 Team is currently deliberating over a potential driver change as the next race in Imola approaches. There are discussions surrounding the possibility of replacing Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto, who serves as the team’s reserve driver. This conversation arises in light of Doohan’s underwhelming performance during the current season, which has prompted the team management to contemplate whether it would be more prudent to make an immediate switch rather than allowing the rookie driver more time to solidify his position.
So far this season, Doohan’s journey as a newcomer has been filled with challenges. While he has occasionally demonstrated impressive one-lap speed—evidenced by outqualifying teammate Pierre Gasly at the Miami Grand Prix—his overall results have been less than satisfactory. A particularly troubling incident occurred during the Miami race, where Doohan was involved in a collision at Turn 1 with Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson, effectively ending his race shortly after it began. Although both drivers were considered to share responsibility for the incident, it nevertheless added to a concerning list of mishaps that have marred Doohan’s debut campaign, which has also included a significant crash during practice at Suzuka.
Alpine is currently struggling in the championship standings, sitting in ninth place, just ahead of the Sauber team. This position is disappointing given the potential of the 2025 car, as demonstrated by Gasly’s commendable seventh-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Aside from a point earned by Gasly during the Miami sprint race—thanks to the penalties incurred by several competitors—Alpine has found it challenging to secure points this season.
The discussions regarding a driver change intensified following the off-season signing of Colapinto, who has been a subject of speculation regarding Doohan’s future with the team. The pressure surrounding this decision has only increased recently, particularly after Horacio Marin, the CEO of the Argentinian energy company YPF, publicly expressed his hope to see Colapinto in the car “in Imola.” Although he later clarified that this was merely his personal wish, it adds to the mounting rumors concerning Doohan’s seat.
Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes, addressed these speculations ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, indicating that while there is external noise about who should drive, the team remains focused on Doohan’s development. “Jack needs to continue doing a good job,” Oakes stated, emphasizing the importance of allowing the rookie driver to improve.
When probed about Doohan’s status for the upcoming race in Imola, Oakes confirmed, “As it is today, Jack is our driver along with Pierre.” However, he also acknowledged that the team is continuously assessing its lineup, leaving room for interpretation regarding any possible changes.
From a logistical standpoint, making a decision before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix on May 18 would be beneficial, especially since this race marks the beginning of a challenging triple-header that includes races in Monaco and Barcelona. However, it has been reported that timing is not the primary concern influencing Alpine’s decision-making process.
Colapinto, on the other hand, is well-prepared to step into the race seat if required. His reserve duties have involved a blend of simulation work and private testing, ensuring that he is ready to take on the responsibilities of a race driver at short notice. Notably, Colapinto made his Formula 1 debut last season during a double-header at Zandvoort and Monza, where he made an immediate impact during his brief time with Williams, scoring points in Baku and Austin.
Despite this promising start, Colapinto’s inexperience also manifested in some challenging moments, including serious crashes in Las Vegas and Brazil, which ultimately led to Red Bull reconsidering their interest in him. Alpine seized the opportunity to sign the talented 21-year-old during the off-season, adding him to their roster of reserve drivers.
Flavio Briatore, an influential advisor to Alpine, has reportedly expressed a desire to see Colapinto take the wheel sooner rather than later. The young driver also enjoys significant support from his home country, which has been reflected in sponsorship commitments, such as Mercado Libre, that have followed him from Williams to Alpine.
As the situation develops, the Alpine F1 Team must weigh their options carefully. With the competitive nature of Formula 1, particularly in the midfield battle, the team needs to consider what will best serve their goals and ambitions for the season. The decision regarding Doohan’s future is not just about performance; it also involves strategic considerations about team dynamics, sponsorship commitments, and the long-term vision for the Enstone-based squad.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Alpine as they prepare for the Imola race weekend. The decisions they make will undoubtedly have implications not only for the present but also for the future trajectory of the team and its drivers. As the stakes rise, the pressure mounts for everyone involved, emphasizing the high-octane environment that defines the world of Formula 1 racing. Whether Jack Doohan will retain his seat or Franco Colapinto will get the chance to shine remains to be seen, but the unfolding drama is sure to captivate fans and analysts alike as the season progresses.
