Isack Hadjar Defends Jack Doohan Amid Alpine’s Controversial Driver Change
In the world of Formula 1, the dynamics between teams and their drivers can often become contentious, especially when it comes to making pivotal decisions that affect the careers of young talents. Recently, Isack Hadjar, a fellow driver, stepped forward to support Jack Doohan after Alpine’s decision to replace the Australian racer with Franco Colapinto for the next five races of the 2025 season. Hadjar expressed concerns regarding the environment surrounding Doohan’s tenure at Alpine, emphasizing the stark differences in support he experienced at his own team, Racing Bulls.
“Before the season even began, there was a sense of something being off,” Hadjar remarked. “I believe Jack started the year under immense pressure and high expectations.” This statement sheds light on the psychological challenges faced by drivers in the high-stakes arena of Formula 1. Hadjar pointed out that the atmosphere at Alpine was not conducive to performance, suggesting that it was "quite unjust" for Doohan to be evaluated when he had limited opportunities to demonstrate his capabilities. The young Australian competed in just six Grands Prix this year, which is a brief window for any driver to prove themselves in such a competitive field.
Hadjar further elaborated on the challenges faced by Doohan, stating, “With only six races under his belt, he didn’t have much time to showcase his talent, and it’s not like he was given a top-tier car to race.” The implications of these comments highlight the importance of both time and resources in a driver’s development and success. The pressure to perform can be overwhelming, particularly for drivers like Doohan, who are still establishing their careers in Formula 1.
At just 22 years old, Doohan has been under constant scrutiny since before the start of the season. Rumors circulated about his future even before the first race, including speculation that he might not compete in his home country of Australia. Such uncertainty can weigh heavily on a driver, making it difficult to focus on performance. The decision by Alpine to bring in Colapinto for further evaluation ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix this weekend adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
When asked whether he felt that Racing Bulls had been more supportive than Alpine was with Doohan, Hadjar didn’t hesitate to agree. “Yes, I didn’t start the season with a gun to my head. That definitely helped. I received support from day one here, and that made a difference.” This comparison underscores the critical role that team environment plays in a driver’s performance and mental well-being. A nurturing atmosphere can significantly enhance a driver’s ability to thrive under pressure.
Despite his critiques of Alpine’s handling of Doohan’s situation, Hadjar acknowledged the competitive nature of Formula 1 and the rationale behind Red Bull Racing’s decision to make early driver swaps. The Red Bull team was the first to implement a pilot exchange this season, swapping Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda after just two races. “You can understand the logic when it comes to Red Bull, as they are looking to compete for the championship. It makes sense in a top-tier team,” Hadjar explained. This perspective illustrates the reality of racing; teams are often forced to prioritize immediate performance over long-term development, especially when championship points are at stake.
Hadjar’s remarks reflect a broader conversation about the treatment of young drivers in Formula 1. The pressure to perform can lead to quick decisions that may not always favor the development of emerging talent. “If you want to give your rookie some experience, you have to allow them to race. Otherwise, they won’t have the opportunity to grow,” he concluded, highlighting the delicate balance teams must strike between short-term results and the long-term potential of their drivers.
The world of Formula 1 is not just about speed and technical prowess; it’s also about the human element that influences performance. As teams navigate the complexities of driver dynamics, the support structures they provide can be the difference between success and failure for young athletes like Jack Doohan.
As the 2025 season progresses, the spotlight will remain on both Alpine and Doohan to see how they adapt to the challenges ahead. The outcomes of upcoming races, including the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, will be pivotal not only for Doohan’s career but also for how teams approach driver development in the future.
In summary, Isack Hadjar’s defense of Jack Doohan sheds light on the intricate relationships between drivers, teams, and the pressures of Formula 1 racing. The contrasting experiences of Hadjar and Doohan serve as a reminder of the importance of a supportive environment in fostering young talent. As the season unfolds, both the challenges and triumphs of these drivers will continue to shape the narrative of their careers in this exhilarating sport.
