With Franco Colapinto confirmed as Alpine’s reserve driver, the pressure on Jack Doohan has been significant. Now, Oliver Oakes, the team principal, has stepped in to clarify the management’s intentions regarding the Australian’s seat.
In recent years, we have seen rookies deliver strong performances in their debuts. Think of the promising showings from Oliver Bearman, Liam Lawson, or Franco Colapinto (at least in his very first races). In Abu Dhabi, a new face appeared on the grid: Jack Doohan. The Australian replaced Esteban Ocon, but his start did not impress as much as those of the aforementioned drivers.
After his race weekend, Jack could not rest easy, as doubts about him emerged immediately. The pressure intensified further with Franco Colapinto’s announcement as the reserve driver, fueling persistent rumors of a possible replacement.
Regarding this, Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes decided to step in and clarify the team’s stance. “Some of the things written by keyboard warriors about Jack have been a bit harsh. He will have his fair chance to try again next year.”
“I don’t think the intention is to put pressure on his shoulders. For me, F1 has very fine margins.” Despite this reassuring statement, Oliver Oakes made it clear that the team’s priority remains results. “There are a lot of people relying on a driver to give their best every weekend, and we have to make sure we have the best drivers in the car—not just now, but also for the future.”
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