Colapinto Gets F1 Chance: Replaces Doohan at Alpine

Franco Colapinto will drive for Alpine in place of Jack Doohan for the next 5 Formula 1 races, starting with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix on May 18th.

Franco Colapinto is set to drive for Alpine for the next five Formula 1 races, replacing Jack Doohan. This move comes after just six rounds of the 2025 season, with Colapinto partnering Pierre Gasly starting from the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. Alpine's executive director, Flavio Briatore, explained that the team sees the need to rotate its lineup due to the closely matched field this year.

BREAKING: Franco Colapinto to race at least the next five races for Alpine in place of Jack Doohan#F1 pic.twitter.com/HLarDPmYP8

— Formula 1 (@F1) May 7, 2025

The decision to replace Doohan, who has yet to score a point in the 2025 season, was made after reviewing the opening races. Despite outqualifying Gasly in Miami, Doohan's performance hasn't met expectations, leading to his demotion to reserve driver. Colapinto, who was signed as Alpine's reserve driver in January, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and promised to work hard to deliver the best results alongside Gasly.

This shake-up follows the surprise resignation of Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes, with Flavio Briatore taking over his responsibilities. Oakes' departure has raised questions, but Alpine has declined to comment on the reasons behind it. Colapinto's promotion means he'll drive for Alpine until the British Grand Prix in July, when the team will reassess its driver lineup.

Alpine, currently ninth in the constructors' championship, has struggled with performance, with Pierre Gasly scoring all seven of the team's points. Meanwhile, rookie Australian driver Liam Doohan has yet to score.

Colapinto is back on the grid in new colours...

Vamos, Franco! 🇦🇷#F1 pic.twitter.com/V5kkxQa5EV

— Formula 1 (@F1) May 7, 2025

The decision to promote Argentine driver Franco Colapinto, signed from Williams over the winter, puts pressure on Doohan's seat, which has been at risk since Colapinto joined the team.

Franco Colapinto will partner Pierre Gasly starting from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix on May 18th. “Franco Colapinto will be paired with Pierre Gasly from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, ahead of a new evaluation before the British Grand Prix in July,” the team stated.

Jack Doohan will step aside as a driver but remain Alpine's first-choice reserve driver during this period. Doohan took over from Esteban Ocon, who secured Alpine's sole win in Hungary in 2021.