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

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.