Alpine benches Doohan, brings on Colapinto for next five F1 rounds

Franco Colapinto replaces Jack Doohan for next 5 F1 rounds; Alpine begins mid-season driver rotation alongside Gasly.


Sports Desk May 07, 2025

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Alpine F1 has announced that reserve driver Franco Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan for the next five rounds of the 2025 Formula 1 season, starting with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

The move marks a strategic mid-season shift as the team embarks on a driver rotation programme alongside Pierre Gasly.

The announcement follows a dramatic leadership shake-up on Tuesday with Team Principal Oliver Oakes resigning, and Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore stepping in to oversee racing operations.

Briatore said the decision reflects Alpine’s focus on making a “complete and fair assessment” of their talent ahead of the pivotal 2026 season.

“We’re in a competitive position and believe rotating drivers now gives us clarity for the long-term,” said Briatore.

Doohan, who debuted full-time this year, has endured a rough start to the season—most recently crashing out on Lap 1 in Miami.

Alpine emphasized that Doohan remains an “integral part” of the team and will serve as first-choice reserve driver during this rotation.

Colapinto, who scored points for Williams in 2024 as a substitute, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I’ll give it everything over the next five races to deliver results,” he said.

Doohan responded with professionalism, acknowledging the team’s vision: “This is tough, but I’ll stay committed and continue pushing for my goals.”

The Argentine will take over from Imola through to Silverstone, after which Alpine will reassess its line-up—marking a crucial evaluation period as F1's competitive field inches closer heading into the next regulations cycle.

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