Australian driver Jack Doohan has been confirmed as a reserve driver for the TGR Haas F1 Team for the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. This announcement comes shortly after his hopes of securing a full-time seat in Japan’s Super Formula series vanished following an unsuccessful evaluation and subsequent stalled negotiations.
Super Formula Opportunity Collapses After Testing and Financial Dispute
Doohan’s potential Super Formula move appeared promising after testing with Kondo Racing, a Toyota-affiliated outfit, where he was considered a leading candidate for one of their 2026 seats. However, the deal unraveled during final talks, as Dutch motorsport media reported. Kondo Racing confirmed that Ukyo Sasahara and Williams reserve driver Luke Browning would fill the two available seats, leaving no space for Doohan. His December test at Suzuka proved to be difficult, with three crashes recorded, though insiders suggest these incidents were not the main reason for the deal’s failure. Instead, negotiations faltered over the financial commitment Doohan was expected to provide.
Alpine Ends Partnership as Doohan Seeks New Career Direction
The disappointment in Japan compounded an already challenging period for the 23-year-old Queensland native. Mid-January saw Alpine officially announce their decision to part ways with Doohan after he had competed in seven Grands Prix during the 2025 season before being replaced by Franco Colapinto. Alpine issued a statement explaining:
“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.”
The split left Doohan searching for pathways to maintain his presence in top-level motorsport.
Haas Confirms Doohan’s Appointment as Reserve Driver
Speculation about Doohan joining Haas as a reserve driver had circulated in motorsport circles, particularly given Haas’ strengthened collaboration with Toyota GAZOO Racing. On February 3, 2026, TGR Haas F1 Team officially announced Doohan’s arrival as a reserve alongside Japan’s Ryō Hirakawa.
Doohan debuted in Formula 1 at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after serving as Alpine’s reserve in 2023 and early 2024. He also started the 2025 season in race duties, participating from the Australian Grand Prix to Miami before reverting to a reserve role. His junior career is distinguished by strong performances, including second place in the 2021 FIA Formula 3 Championship and third in the 2023 FIA Formula 2 standings, accompanied by several wins.
Doohan Expresses Enthusiasm About Joining Haas
In the team’s announcement, Doohan conveyed his excitement about the new chapter:
“I’m thrilled to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team.”
He continued,
“It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula 1 career. I would like to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to grow and take on the great challenge of 2026 together. I’m eager to begin working with the team and collaborating on a successful season.”
Team Principal Highlights Doohan’s Value to Haas
Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed Doohan warmly, underscoring the driver’s experience and determination:
“I’m personally very excited to have Jack join us on the team given the strength of his racing resume and of course his experience in being a reserve driver in Formula 1. The dedication required to remain sharp and prepared to race while getting to know how the team works and so on, it’s challenging for any driver – especially one who’s obviously still very keen to race again at this level. I’ve enjoyed getting to know Jack and we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team and benefiting from his contributions.”
Ryō Hirakawa Balances Reserve Duties with Endurance Racing
Doohan joins Ryō Hirakawa, who has served with Haas since April 2025, combining reserve driver responsibilities with a full-time position in the FIA World Endurance Championship driving for Toyota GAZOO Racing. Hirakawa has already gained track time through several TPC tests and Free Practice 1 sessions, preparing the team for the upcoming season.
Haas Prepares for 2026 Season with New Reserve Lineup
The TGR Haas F1 Team is preparing for pre-season testing sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit scheduled for February 11-13 and 18-20. These preparations are critical ahead of the 2026 season opener at the Australian Grand Prix from March 6-8.
Doohan’s addition as reserve driver ensures he remains involved at the pinnacle of motorsport, keeping him ready to step in if racing opportunities arise. For Haas — a team that debuted in Formula 1 in 2016 and has competed in over 200 Grands Prix — securing Doohan’s services reflects their intent to enhance driver depth as they continue partnerships with Scuderia Ferrari and Toyota GAZOO Racing.
Haas Team’s Global Presence and Motorsport Involvement
Founded by Gene Haas, who owns Haas Automation, the team operates with a presence in Kannapolis, North Carolina; Banbury, England; and Maranello, Italy. Beyond Formula 1, Haas also maintains a significant footprint domestically through its NASCAR program, the Haas Factory Team, further cementing its role in global motorsport.
