Jack Doohan tops Alpine shortlist as they consider candidates to partner with Gasly
In almost traditional fashion, the last twenty-four hours have seen another important story emerge from Alpine. Oliver Oakes has been appointed as their new team principal, becoming the third person to occupy this position since August 2023. Amidst this managerial change, all indications point towards Jack Doohan as Alpine’s choice to replace Esteban Ocon.
Doohan has been extremely active this year despite not occupying a full-time racing seat in any category.
The Australian’s energy has been focused on fulfilling his duties as Alpine’s reserve driver, including a significant number of tests in Formula 1 machinery.
At the beginning of the year, Doohan was not necessarily seen as someone destined to debut in F1. The consensus was that Ocon and Gasly would continue at Enstone.
However, like any reserve, Doohan entered this year ready to capitalise on any opportunity that might present itself.
The perfect circumstances have indeed emerged for the Australian, thanks to the rapid deterioration of relations between Ocon and the team, which led to the 27-year-old’s departure.
Ironically, outgoing Bruno Famin (during his relatively brief tenure) tipped the scales towards a new driver line-up.
Even with the Frenchman no longer in charge of the team, Doohan stands to gain from the vacancy at Enstone.
A logical next step for Alpine
On paper, the Alpine Academy driver is one of the smaller names to pass through the French outfit’s doors.
World Champions, race winners and widely respected drivers – from Fernando Alonso to Nico Hulkenberg – have raced for the team over the past five years.
Unlike them, Doohan would be a rookie in Formula 1. Whilst undoubtedly filled with potential, the Australian will also need time to adjust and realise his abilities.
Whilst his immediate performances would need to be given a certain leniency, this would – in the grand scheme of things – be the last of Alpine’s worries.
A high-profile driver is the last thing a team scrapping at the back of the midfield needs. It would only magnify their lack of performance and worsen the narrative surrounding the team.
Doohan could represent a significant reset for Alpine and, in many ways, a much-needed one.
Though nothing can be taken for granted, the 21-year-old is the leading candidate to race alongside Pierre Gasly next season.
