Alpine F1 Team appears set to make a dramatic change by potentially replacing rookie driver Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the upcoming Imola Grand Prix. Reports from the Formula 1 paddock suggest that the Argentine driver could join Pierre Gasly at Alpine, following rumors fueled by a sponsor’s premature comments and ongoing speculation within the team.
The speculation escalated when a sponsor linked to Colapinto hinted at his imminent return to Formula 1 in Italy, prompting questions directed at Alpine’s Team Principal, Oliver Oakes. While Oakes did not confirm the swap, he acknowledged the rumors and stressed the need for Doohan to maintain solid performance, saying,
Jack needs to continue doing a good job. But it’s natural that there’s always speculation there.
This uncertainty follows offseason gossip about Doohan’s future and vocal praise for Colapinto by Alpine’s Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore.
Franco Colapinto, who transitioned from Williams to Alpine as a reserve driver, is targeting a full-time race seat in 2025 or 2026. His notable nine-race stint last year alongside Alex Albon has bolstered his reputation and positioned him as a strong candidate for Alpine’s main lineup. The prospect of him stepping in hinges largely on Doohan’s underwhelming results this season, as he remains one of only four drivers yet to score a championship point.
Despite showing speed in qualifying rounds, Jack Doohan’s race performances have been challenged by errors and several incidents leading to premature retirements. Former race winner Johnny Herbert criticized Doohan’s race pace, describing it as a weakness that hampers his ability to capitalize on qualifying success. Herbert suggested that if Doohan’s struggles persist, Colapinto could be ready to take his place, providing fresh momentum to the team.
Alpine’s prior commitment to Doohan now faces scrutiny amid growing reports of a possible driver change, putting their confirmed lineup into question. The potential swap between Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto has created tension within the paddock, foreshadowing a significant shift just before the Imola event.
As the Formula 1 world awaits official announcements from Alpine, this unfolding situation remains closely watched, carrying significant implications for the team’s strategy and performance for the rest of the season. The decision will not only influence driver dynamics but could reshape Alpine’s competitiveness in the fiercely contested championship.
