Doohan ‘embracing’ pressure at Alpine amid Colapinto speculation

Jack Doohan is ready to take on the challenge of his rookie Formula 1 season with Alpine, even as rumors swirl around Franco Colapinto’s potential mid-season promotion.

Doohan, who has stepped into the seat vacated by Esteban Ocon, will partner Pierre Gasly in what promises to be a critical season for the Enstone-based squad.

Despite the external noise, the young Aussi has made it clear that he’s unfazed by the speculation, instead choosing to focus on the opportunity he’s worked tirelessly to earn.

Lingering Rumors

Alpine’s decision to sign Franco Colapinto as a reserve driver has fueled rumors that the highly-rated Argentine could replace Doohan if the Australian struggles in his rookie campaign.

Williams boss James Vowles even hinted at the possibility, suggesting Colapinto’s move could facilitate a return to F1 for the Argentine driver later this year.

Furthermore, despite his restricted role with Alpine, Colapinto has drawn a strong commercial interest from Argentina, with the French squad announcing on Tuesday a partnership with Mercado Libre, the leading e-commerce platform in Latin America.

©Alpine

But Doohan remains grounded. Queried by the media about Colapinto’s role ahead of this evening’s F1 75 event in London, he explained the reassurance Alpine has given him.

“I’ve been told he’s a reserve driver,” the 22-year-old rookie said.

Thriving Under Pressure

Doohan is no stranger to high expectations, and he welcomes the challenge of competing in one of the world’s most cutthroat sports.

Addressing the inevitable pressure, he reflected on his journey to the pinnacle of motorsport.

“I think regardless, you’re one of 20 Formula 1 drivers in the world. when I was a go-karter in Formula 3, Formula 2, I would do anything to be in Formula 1 and sacrifice everything,” he explained.

“I don’t think necessarily if it’s someone inside the team, outside the team, anyone that’s performing well, you’re always going to have pressure on your shoulders because you’re in such a cutthroat sport.

“Whatever pressure there may be, I look forward to enjoying that, embracing it, and just enjoying my Formula 1 season.”

A Familiar Role Reversal

Colapinto’s presence hasn’t caused Doohan to feel undermined, as he was in a similar position himself just a year ago. He therefore sees no reason to feel threatened or insecure.

“I was a 21-year-old reserve driver last year with a long-term contract, but no, I don’t,” he added. “Maybe I should? I don’t really understand that question, but definitely not.”

For Doohan, it’s clear that his focus is on delivering results, not getting caught up in speculation.

Learning from Gasly

As Doohan prepares for his first full season, he is eager to draw inspiration from his teammate Pierre Gasly.

With the Frenchman’s race-winning experience and time-tested expertise, Doohan sees his partnership with Gasly as an invaluable learning opportunity.

©Alpine

“I’ve been, obviously, a team-mate directly in the car for the last two years, but from, let’s say, a third person point of view, looking in and seeing Pierre as a driver and obviously him being so richly experienced now, a race winner, podium finisher, an exceptional driver in Formula 1,” he said.

“So to be partnered up against him is great and I’m sure it’ll be amazing for me to learn off him and increase my capabilities in Formula 1 car.”

As the 2025 season approaches, the Australian rookie’s attitude and resilience will be critical in navigating his debut campaign—regardless of the noise around him.

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