Alpine's Shocking Driver Swap: Doohan Out, Colapinto In?
The Formula 1 world is abuzz with speculation surrounding a potential driver change at Alpine. Rookie Jack Doohan, after just six races, might be on the verge of losing his seat to Franco Colapinto, a move that has sparked considerable controversy and debate within the F1 community.
Doohan's Short and Tumultuous F1 Career
Jack Doohan, son of five-time motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan, entered Formula 1 with high expectations. However, his start has been far from smooth. While showing flashes of speed and even outqualifying his teammate Pierre Gasly in Miami, his rookie season has been plagued by incidents. A first-lap crash in Australia, penalties in China, and another opening-lap collision in Miami haven't helped his cause. He remains one of only four drivers yet to score a single point in 2025.
- Crash in Australia: A significant incident in the season opener hindered his early momentum.
- Penalties in China: Further setbacks impacted his points tally.
- Miami Collision: A first-lap crash with Liam Lawson potentially sealed his fate.
Even before the season started, a cloud hung over Doohan's future. The arrival of Colapinto as a reserve driver, reportedly due to substantial financial backing and popularity in Latin America, fueled speculation that Doohan's position was precarious. Journalist Adam Cooper even hinted last winter that Doohan had only six races to prove himself.
Colapinto's Rise and Alpine's Strategic Move
Franco Colapinto, the Argentine driver, impressed during his stint with Williams in 2024, scoring points in several races as a stand-in. While his performance isn't demonstrably superior to Doohan's, Colapinto's substantial sponsorship from Argentine state-owned oil company YPF, significantly boosted by Flavio Briatore's negotiations, is a compelling factor in Formula 1's financially driven landscape. Rumors suggest a potential tripling of financial backing for Alpine if Colapinto secures a seat. This financial incentive may outweigh Doohan's recent improvement.
The speculation intensified following an off-air comment from Horacio Marin, YPF president, seemingly confirming Colapinto's participation in the Imola Grand Prix. Despite Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore initially downplaying the rumors, the persistent reports from multiple international media outlets, including L'Equipe, Bild, BBC, and Ole, point towards an imminent driver swap.
The Controversy and Debate
Many believe Alpine's decision is premature. While Doohan's performance hasn't been flawless, his potential and the circumstances of some of his crashes are being debated. The speed at which Alpine is potentially replacing him echoes Red Bull's swift swap with Liam Lawson earlier in the season, raising concerns about how teams treat their young drivers.
- Premature Decision? Some argue Doohan deserved more time to prove himself.
- Financial Influence: Colapinto's significant sponsorship is a key factor in the decision.
- Alpine's Struggles: The team's overall underperformance in 2025 also plays a role.
Conclusion: A Cruel Twist of Fate for Doohan?
Jack Doohan’s Formula 1 journey may have ended abruptly. While the official confirmation is pending, the weight of evidence points towards a swap with Colapinto before the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. Whether this is a rash decision based on a few unfortunate incidents, or a pre-ordained outcome influenced by financial considerations, remains a matter of debate. It’s a harsh lesson in the cutthroat nature of Formula 1, where performance and financial backing often overshadow long-term driver development. Doohan's future remains uncertain, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport.
