Alpine Signs Franco Colapinto as Reserve Driver, Putting Pressure on Jack Doohan

Alpine has signed Franco Colapinto as a reserve driver, increasing speculation about Jack Doohan's future with the team.

The Alpine Formula 1 team has added fuel to speculation surrounding Jack Doohan's future by signing Argentine driver Franco Colapinto as a reserve driver. This move has put pressure on the Australian rookie, who may face replacement if he fails to meet performance targets.

Renault-owned Alpine announced that 21-year-old Colapinto has joined the team on a multi-year deal. Colapinto impressed last year despite being involved in several crashes, after being brought in mid-season by Williams to replace dropped American Logan Sargeant.

Alpine's executive advisor Flavio Briatore praised Colapinto, saying, “Clearly, Franco is among the best young talents in motorsport right now.” Briatore's words may have further dampened Doohan's morale, as he added, “It is fair to say his appearance on the Formula 1 grid last year caught many, me included, by surprise and his performances have been very impressive for a rookie driver.”

BREAKING: Franco Colapinto joins Alpine on a multi-year deal and will be their Test and Reserve Driver for the 2025 season#F1 pic.twitter.com/RewHlFCpbG

— Formula 1 (@F1) January 9, 2025

Briatore emphasized the team's focus on the future, stating, “We have an eye on our future and his signing means we have a great pool of young drivers to call upon and work with in developing the team for future success.” This statement suggests that Colapinto's signing is part of Alpine's long-term strategy, which may not bode well for Doohan's prospects with the team.

The team's reserve list boasts talented drivers, including Japanese Ryo Hirakawa, who was announced on Thursday, and young Estonian F2 driver Paul Aron.

Jack Doohan's promotion to the race seat was confirmed in August, following the return of former boss Flavio Briatore and the appointment of Oliver Oakes as principal. This announcement preceded Facundo Colapinto's race debut at Monza on September 1.

In a recent interview with France's Le Parisien newspaper, Briatore hinted at potential changes to the driver lineup, saying, “We'll start the year with Pierre (Gasly) and Jack, I can guarantee that. After that, we'll see as the season progresses.” This statement sparked concerns about the team's plans.

Williams team principal James Vowles expressed his support for Facundo Colapinto, stating that the driver deserves a place in F1. Colapinto has garnered significant attention and backing from sponsors and fans in Latin America.