Australian driver Jack Doohan has been announced as a reserve driver for the Haas F1 Team for the 2026 season, continuing his presence within the Formula 1 paddock despite previous setbacks. This opportunity follows a challenging rookie season marked by limited race chances and a parting of ways with Alpine earlier this year.
Following rumors of only five race starts to prove himself, Doohan made some progress by reaching Q2 three times and briefly running within the points during the Bahrain Grand Prix. However, he was dropped at the Emilia Romagna GP at Imola and was unable to reclaim a race seat as Alpine committed multi-year support to Franco Colapinto as their reserve driver.
Transition from Alpine to Haas with New Support
Doohan’s contract with Alpine officially ended in January, but he quickly found a new position as Haas announced plans for him to share their reserve driver duties alongside Japanese sports car specialist Ryo Hirakawa. Hirakawa has already taken part in young driver free practice sessions for Haas and completed testing on older cars.
Expressing his excitement, Doohan said,
“I’m thrilled to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team,”
adding,
“It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula 1 career.”
He further thanked the team for the opportunity to develop alongside them and looks forward to working together toward a successful 2026 season.
In addition to his team change, Doohan has switched management. Lebanese manager Khalil Beschir, who also oversees drivers Sergio Perez and Nico Hulkenberg, now represents him. This marks a shift from his former manager, Italian Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s Executive Advisor, who had an indirect role in Doohan losing his race seat at Alpine.
Haas Prepares for Upcoming Testing with Established Drivers
The Haas team, driven by Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman, recently completed a productive shakedown in Barcelona, covering 391 laps over three days. Their winter testing program is set to continue with further sessions in Bahrain starting February 11, as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Plans for Japanese Super Formula Put on Hold
While Doohan remains active within the F1 system, a move to compete in Japan’s Super Formula Championship in 2026 has fallen through. He participated in the series’ post-season testing at Suzuka, returning to a track where he previously experienced a severe crash during a Grand Prix practice session. Unfortunately, Doohan crashed three times during testing at the Degner Curve, though he escaped injury.
Despite Toyota’s backing and an expected seat with the Kondo Racing team alongside Williams reserve driver Luke Browning, the second seat ultimately went to Ukyo Sasahara. This left Doohan without a racing role in Super Formula for next season.
Future Racing Prospects and Haas Role
It remains uncertain whether Doohan will pursue a ride in another racing series or dedicate himself fully to his reserve driver duties at Haas. Given his determination and ongoing involvement with Haas, the Australian’s career path appears to be focused on building valuable experience and preparing for possible future opportunities within Formula 1.
