At Alpine, the start of 2025 will focus on two main topics. One will concern performance: in the Sakhir tests, the A525s showed promising signs, but they will need to confirm their potential when it matters most, on track from the Australian Grand Prix. The second point, however, will involve two drivers under contract.
Jack Doohan will start the season as a regular driver, alongside the unmovable Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman will be the team’s anchor following the arrival of Flavio Briatore and Oliver Oakes, while Franco Colapinto will be the luxury reserve, especially after showing promising skills in the final part of the 2024 season when he replaced Logan Sargeant at Williams.
Doohan will definitely race the first few Grands Prix of the season, but his role as a regular driver is not guaranteed. If his performance does not meet expectations, Franco Colapinto will be ready to step in.
Meanwhile, the Enstone team has taken a clear stance. Oliver Oakes, Alpine’s team principal, has begun a protective approach towards Jack Doohan to ensure he is in the best possible position, both technically and psychologically, to perform well from the start.
“Jack is great. I am proud of how he has handled the media,” Oakes said to Motorsport.com. “I feel for him. I understand that everyone is looking for readers and clicks, and that his situation is a topic of discussion. But I think he should be given some space to move forward and race.”
However, Oakes hinted that Jack Doohan’s future this season is in his hands. He will have to prove himself on track, otherwise, Enstone has the human resources available to replace him and potentially have the right person to pair with Pierre Gasly.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or what category you’re racing in. There is always pressure. It doesn’t matter if you’re in F1 or in the lower categories. I think Franco Colapinto did a good job last year, he also has a great fan base, so it’s natural for people to talk about him. But on the other hand, I think as a team, we are lucky to have three very good reserve drivers. And that puts us in a strong position.”
“As for whether I’m being kind to Jack, I’ve been pretty open about the fact that he’s driving an F1 car: it’s every boy’s dream, but it’s also his job. It’s very simple.”
“I believe Jack is doing a great job of blocking all the noise, the talk about him and his future.”
Regarding the possible clause that would allow Doohan to have a few guaranteed races before receiving a judgment on whether he will continue as a regular driver, Oakes dodged the question, increasing speculation about whether such a clause exists in the Australian’s contract.
“It’s not my idea. I think as a team we’ve been very clear about what we are doing. I keep repeating it. But it would be nice to let Jack move forward and also let the team progress, if I’m honest.” – he concluded.
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