Jack Doohan‘s debut Formula 1 season with Alpine encountered a sharp setback during the Miami Sprint Qualifying 1 session in May 2025, preventing him from advancing and igniting visible frustration. The Australian driver, competing at the Miami International Autodrome, missed the chance to set a second flying lap, ultimately starting the Sprint Race in 17th place.
Doohan’s entry into Formula 1 in 2025 followed a promotion from Alpine’s reserve driver role in 2024, replacing Esteban Ocon who moved to Haas. Expectations were high for the rookie season, but the Miami incident cast a shadow over his early performances.
Challenges in Miami Pit Lane Trigger Frustration
During the Sprint Qualifying 1 session, Doohan was released from the pits simultaneously with his teammate Pierre Gasly, but experienced a slower start out of the pit lane. This delay denied him a critical lap to improve his position and hindered his progress into the second qualifying segment.
Following this session, Alpine’s press officer intervened to calm Doohan, a moment featured on the latest season of Drive to Survive. The exchange revealed Doohan’s open frustration over his situation. He stated,
“I don’t give a s— anymore,”
before being urged to calm down. He continued,
“I’m already close-lipped, f—— 99% of the time. Anything they will hear is only a third of what I am allowed to say.”
Alpine Replaces Doohan After Miami Struggles
Just three days following the Miami Grand Prix, Alpine confirmed they would replace Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the rest of the 2025 season. Doohan’s inability to secure points over six race weekends led to his relegation to reserve driver status.
Media speculation about a midseason drop materialized, and Doohan’s candid reaction was shared during a conversation with his father, Mick Doohan, aired on Drive to Survive. Jack expressed his irritation:
“I thought that it was all b——-, and now they get to be right. That is what annoys me the most.”
Doohan’s Continued Role in Formula 1 with Haas
Despite his challenges with Alpine, Doohan remains active in Formula 1, having signed as a reserve driver for Haas for the 2026 season. This opportunity provides him a chance to continue developing within the sport while seeking a more stable race seat.
The episode highlights the intense pressure rookie drivers face in their initial F1 seasons, especially when taking over seats formerly occupied by established teammates. Doohan’s experience reflects the high-stakes environment of Formula 1, where early setbacks can quickly affect career trajectories.
