Jack Doohan under pressure as Alpine's reserve drivers eye his seat

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

MELBOURNE, Australia — Jack Doohan is feeling the heat as he prepares to start his first full season in Formula 1 at the Australian Grand Prix. The Australian driver, who made his race debut in Abu Dhabi at the end of last year, acknowledges that his position is being coveted by all four of Alpine’s reserve drivers—not just the highly-regarded Franco Colapinto.

In addition to the Argentine driver Colapinto, Alpine’s reserve lineup includes Estonian Paul Aron, Japan’s Ryo Hirakawa, and Indian Kush Maini. The speculation surrounding his future has only intensified with the recruitment of Colapinto, who competed in nine races for former champions Williams last year, securing five points and bringing substantial sponsor support.

Speaking at the pre-race news conference at Albert Park on Thursday, Doohan, son of motorcycle legend Mick Doohan, emphasized the competitive environment he faces. "I think I have to perform each and every time I'm in the car, regardless," says Doohan. "If you didn't realize, we have four reserve drivers. All four of them, not just Franco, probably want my seat, and if not Pierre’s [Gasly] as well."

As a former reserve driver himself, Doohan is well aware of the aspirations of those in similar roles. He added, "I wanted seats while I was a reserve driver the last two years. I'm going to enjoy every race as if it's my last. I want to enjoy each and every moment that I'm in the car."

Some critics have raised questions about Doohan’s place in Formula 1, suggesting he may only have a limited number of races to prove his worth to the French team. Alpine’s executive advisor Flavio Briatore indicated in December that the team would start the year with Doohan and Gasly but would reassess as the season progressed.

Meanwhile, McLaren's Oscar Piastri has shown support for his compatriot, stating that Doohan deserves his opportunity in F1. "It's always great to have another Aussie, and I think Jack has proven through his junior career that he deserves a chance. It's nice to see him here," Piastri remarked during the news conference.

Reflecting on the challenges Doohan faces, Piastri added, "I know it’s never an easy thing to come into a race seat again when you’ve spent so much time out of a seat. You’re not jumping back into just any race car, you’re jumping in an F1 car. I think time is going to be an important thing and trying to learn."

As Doohan gears up for the Australian Grand Prix, all eyes will be on his performance in what could be a defining moment of his career.

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