Jack Doohan’s journey in Formula 1 took an unexpected turn in 2025 when Alpine decided to replace him after just six races, marking a significant shift for the young Australian driver. The 22-year-old was dropped in favor of Franco Colapinto, who joined the team on a five-race deal as part of Alpine’s unique rotational driver strategy. This decision, announced by the French outfit, sparked reactions from the F1 community and close friends alike, with Supercars driver and Doohan’s childhood friend, Broc Feeney, offering a message of motivation and support during this challenging time.
Alpine’s move to rotate drivers, unusual in Formula 1, reflects a broader strategy under team principal Flavio Briatore. The team, based in Enstone, currently manages a roster of six drivers, including Pierre Gasly, Kush Maini, Ryo Hirakawa, and Paul Aron alongside Doohan and Colapinto. This approach allows Alpine flexibility in their lineup, even permitting additional driver changes within the FIA’s regulatory limits before the season concludes. Despite the shake-up, Broc Feeney remains hopeful, urging Jack Doohan to maintain his determination and focus on future opportunities in the sport he excels at.
Feeney, who competes in the Supercars Championship for Triple Eight Race Engineering, shared insights into their long-standing friendship dating back to childhood racing in Australia. His encouragement highlights the strong bond between the two and underscores the belief that Doohan’s talent and passion will lead him back to F1’s top levels.
“I know Jack’s got the drive and ability to bounce back stronger than ever,”
Feeney remarked, emphasizing Doohan’s resilience and potential to overcome setbacks.
Meanwhile, Alpine’s new driver Franco Colapinto, loaned from Williams, has received backing from Williams’ team principal James Vowles. Colapinto impressed during his nine races in the 2024 season, and despite the French team’s challenging environment, Vowles expressed confidence in the Argentine’s ability to adapt and thrive. This loan deal aims to give Colapinto valuable race experience before returning to Williams at Grove, illustrating Alpine’s innovative but unsettled approach to developing talent.
Jack Doohan’s demotion from Alpine F1 may seem discouraging, but it also marks a pivotal moment ripe with opportunity. The rotation policy introduces unpredictability, yet Doohan’s proven skills and the support from influential figures like Broc Feeney suggest he remains firmly in the hunt for future success. As the season unfolds, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see how Doohan rebounds, with high hopes that this setback will fuel a strong comeback in the fiercely competitive world of Formula 1.
