Jack Doohan will not compete in the upcoming Super Formula season after negotiations with Toyota-linked Kondo Racing failed at the last moment, despite expectations that the Australian driver would secure a spot. The deal’s collapse leaves Doohan without a clear racing option following his recent exit from Formula 1.
Kondo Racing opts for Ukyo Sasahara and Luke Browning for 2026 lineup
Kondo Racing announced that Ukyo Sasahara will join Luke Browning for their 2026 Super Formula campaign, closing the opportunity that had appeared to be Doohan’s strongest chance to continue high-level motorsport. Sasahara’s return finalizes the 23-car grid for the upcoming season.
Background on Doohan’s link to Kondo and related Toyota partnership
Doohan’s connection to Kondo Racing followed his participation in the post-season Super Formula rookie test at Suzuka last December, which many saw as a step toward a full-time seat. This potential deal was reportedly part of a broader arrangement involving Toyota that might have included reserve driver duties with Formula 1’s Haas team.
Negotiations faltered due to financial and performance issues
Reports suggest the talks ended partly because Doohan was expected to provide funding to secure the seat, and the required budget reportedly became a sticking point. Additionally, during his Suzuka rookie test, Doohan struggled with incidents, crashing three times at the Degner 2 corner, limiting his track time and resulting in slower overall lap times compared to Browning.
Although Kondo defended Doohan’s efforts publicly at the time, the lack of consistent, clean laps ultimately weakened his case as the team finalized their roster.
Consequences for Doohan’s career amid limited opportunities
With Super Formula no longer an option, Doohan faces a challenging situation late in the offseason as few alternate seats remain available. This setback follows his formal departure from Alpine, marking the end of his six-race stint in Formula 1. Doohan made his F1 debut at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and competed in the first five rounds of the 2025 season without scoring points before being replaced by Franco Colapinto.
Future outlook for Doohan after missing Super Formula chance
Failing to secure a Super Formula drive is a significant hurdle for Doohan as he seeks to continue his racing career at a high level. With the season approaching and options narrowing, it remains to be seen where he will compete next, making his next move critical for maintaining momentum after his time with the French squad and his connections through Toyota and Haas.
