The Jack Doohan Alpine split has been confirmed, with the Formula 1 reserve driver and the team parting ways ahead of the 2026 season. The decision, described as mutual, allows Doohan to explore new opportunities after a turbulent start in his Formula 1 career with the Anglo-French squad.
Alpine Announces Departure Ahead of 2026
Alpine confirmed the departure of Jack Doohan, who had previously been serving as their reserve driver. The 22-year-old Australian, whose father is the renowned motorcycling champion Mick Doohan, made his Formula 1 race debut at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. His tenure in a race seat was brief, as he was replaced by Franco Colapinto after only six races of the 2025 season.
Doohan’s stint with the team was marked by challenges, including two significant crashes at the opening Australian Grand Prix and then again in Japan just two races later. These difficulties contributed to Alpine’s decision to alter its driver lineup earlier in the 2025 season.
Team Statement and Doohan’s Track Record
The team offered clarity on the status of the Jack Doohan Alpine split through an official statement:
BWT Alpine Formula One Team confirms it has reached a mutual agreement with Jack Doohan to not continue his driving services with the team for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship season and allow him to pursue other career opportunities,
an Alpine team statement read.
Reflecting on Doohan’s time at Alpine, the official release noted his significance as the first Alpine Academy member to earn a race seat by debuting at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The team acknowledged his dedication and professionalism over the past four years:
The team would like to thank Jack for his commitment and professionalism to the team for the past four years, both on and off track, and wishes him all the best for the future.
Future Prospects: Haas, Super Formula, and Beyond
Following the Jack Doohan Alpine split, speculation has grown around Doohan’s next steps in motorsport. He has been rumored to join Haas as a reserve driver alongside Ryo Hirakawa, positioning him with a prominent Formula 1 team once again.
In addition to potential F1 involvement, Doohan is reportedly on the verge of a deal to compete with Kondo Racing in the Japanese Super Formula series, an operation closely linked to Toyota. This move could enable Doohan to balance commitments in both Formula 1 and Super Formula, especially as Toyota expands its collaboration with Haas.
Despite showing promise, Doohan experienced some setbacks during his initial Super Formula test in Suzuka, where he suffered similar incidents across three consecutive days in December. Nonetheless, these experiences could serve as valuable learning opportunities as he looks ahead.
During the 2025 season, Alpine also had other reserve drivers on its roster, including Paul Aron and Kush Maini, reflecting the team’s broader approach to developing young talent.
Significance and What Lies Ahead
The split between Jack Doohan and Alpine highlights the intense competition and rapid changes that define careers in Formula 1. As Doohan seeks new avenues, either with Haas or in Japanese motorsport, his journey underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience for drivers striving to secure lasting positions in the world’s top racing championship.
