Alpine is reportedly considering replacing Jack Doohan for the upcoming Formula 1 race in Imola, with Franco Colapinto potentially stepping in.
Doohan started the 2024 F1 season facing pressure, especially after Alpine unexpectedly appointed Colapinto as their reserve driver.
The 21-year-old Australian driver, who has not yet scored points, expressed frustration last Friday after being knocked out early in Miami`s Sprint Qualifying. His weekend worsened when he retired from Sunday`s main race following a clash with Liam Lawson of RB on the opening lap.
According to sources, Alpine is reviewing Doohan`s performance and future. A final decision is expected this week, ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola (May 16-18), which kicks off the European leg of the season.
Alpine has not commented on the situation.
Alpine`s team principal, Oliver Oakes, did not hold the team`s standard media briefing after the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday.
However, when asked last Friday about Doohan driving in Imola, Oakes stated: “As of today, Jack is our driver alongside Pierre. We`ve been quite clear on that. We always evaluate, but yes – currently, that remains the situation.”
He also commented: “Jack needs to keep performing well. But naturally, there`s always speculation.”
Doohan has yet to score points for Alpine across his seven races with the team since his involvement began last December. His best finish was 13th at the Chinese Grand Prix.
He has been involved in two significant crashes this season: one during the race at his home Grand Prix in Australia and another during Friday practice in Japan.
Doohan, who finished second in the 2023 Formula 2 Championship, finished 17th (a lap down) in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and retired on the opening lap in Miami.
Meanwhile, Pierre Gasly has earned all seven of Alpine`s points this season, finishing seventh in Bahrain and scoring a point in the Miami Sprint.
