Alpine F1 is reportedly considering a driver change ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola, with Jack Doohan potentially being replaced by reserve driver Franco Colapinto, Motorsport.com has revealed. This move comes amid growing concerns over Doohan’s challenging rookie season and a series of incidents that have impacted both his performance and the team‘s results.
The Australian rookie showed promising moments, such as outqualifying teammate Pierre Gasly at the Miami Grand Prix and flashing competitive one-lap pace. However, Doohan’s campaign has been marred by a number of on-track troubles, including a significant crash during Suzuka practice and a recent collision with Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson on the opening lap in Miami, which immediately ended his race. While officials deemed the contact a racing incident without assigning blame, it was yet another setback in a season that has tested Doohan and Alpine alike.
Alpine’s 2024 car demonstrates considerable potential, illustrated by Gasly’s impressive seventh-place finish at Bahrain, and a points finish in the Miami sprint race sparked by penalties to rivals. Despite this, Alpine’s overall performance has fallen short in a fiercely competitive midfield, with the French squad standing ninth in the championship, only ahead of Sauber. This underperformance has increased pressure on the team to reassess its driver lineup in an effort to reverse fortunes.
The speculation surrounding Doohan’s future grew following Alpine’s signing of Franco Colapinto, the 2024 Williams reserve driver, during the off-season. The debate intensified after Horacio Marin, CEO of Argentinian energy company YPF, implied during a TV interview that Colapinto could be racing in Imola. Although Marin later clarified those comments were wishful thinking, the remarks added fuel to the ongoing speculation.
Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes addressed these rumors ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, acknowledging the Argentinean sponsor’s enthusiasm while labeling it “just noise.” Oakes emphasized that Jack Doohan remains the team’s driver and must continue to prove his worth, but conceded that speculation is a natural part of the sport.
When directly asked about Doohan’s status for Imola, Oakes stopped short of a firm commitment but confirmed that as of now, Doohan and Gasly remain Alpine’s drivers. He stressed that the team is “always evaluating” its driver lineup, leaving the door open to potential changes.
From a logistical standpoint, a decision before the triple-header of races in Imola, Monaco, and Barcelona would make practical sense. However, Motorsport.com sources suggest that timing is not the primary factor driving Alpine’s deliberations. Instead, the team appears focused on assessing performance, team dynamics, and long-term prospects.
Franco Colapinto is prepared to step in if called upon, having maintained readiness through simulation work and private testing as part of his reserve role. His ability to adapt quickly is supported by his Formula 1 debut last year during a double-header at Zandvoort and Monza, when he filled in for Logan Sargeant at Williams. Colapinto impressed by scoring points in Baku and Austin, though he also experienced high-profile crashes in Las Vegas and Brazil, which dampened some interest from Red Bull before Alpine secured him.
Within Alpine’s leadership, there appears to be growing support for giving Colapinto a chance to race sooner rather than later. Flavio Briatore, a key advisor to the team, reportedly favors this direction. Additionally, the Argentinian’s extensive backing from sponsors such as Mercado Libre enhances his profile and signals a strong support network following his move from Williams to Alpine.
The potential driver switch carries significant implications for Alpine’s 2024 campaign. Doohan, despite his setbacks, offers youthful promise but faces pressure to deliver consistent performances in a demanding environment. Colapinto, meanwhile, represents a fresh opportunity with the capability to inject new energy, yet comes with the risks typical of relative inexperience. How Alpine navigates this decision could shape its trajectory for the remainder of the season, affecting driver development, team morale, and competitive standing.
As the Imola race approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine’s management to see whether they opt for continuity with Jack Doohan or take the gamble on Franco Colapinto’s potential. The outcome will not only influence driver careers but also Alpine’s position in a closely contested Formula 1 midfield battle, underscoring the high stakes and fast-paced decision-making inherent to the sport.
