Jack Doohan is stepping onto the stage of Formula 1 at his home Grand Prix with both anticipation and pressure. The 22-year-old Australian driver, who made his debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last year, is set to start his first full season with Alpine at Albert Park on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Yet, as he prepares to face the challenges of the F1 season, his position is already under scrutiny, mainly due to the heightened competition from his team’s reserve drivers.
Alpine has not only signed Doohan as one of its main drivers for the season but has also brought on board four reserve drivers: Franco Colapinto, Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa, and Kush Maini. Each of these drivers, particularly Colapinto, is highly regarded and as Doohan himself pointed out, "I think I have to perform each and every time I'm in the car, regardless. If you didn't realize we have four reserve drivers. All four of them, not just Franco, probably want my seat..." This acknowledgment from Doohan underlines the competitive atmosphere as he prepares for the upcoming race.
Colapinto, who raced with Williams last year and scored five points, is seen as a significant threat to Doohan’s career at Alpine. His impressive resume and strong sponsorship have made him one of the team’s standout reserve options. Alpine’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, has hinted at potential changes down the line, stating, “we’ll see how the season progresses,” indicating Doohan’s future could depend heavily on his early performances.
Marko’s recent comments about Doohan have added to this pressure. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s advisor, did not hold back when assessing Doohan’s skills, labeling him as "C-rate" and casting doubts on his suitability for F1. He suggested, "Doohan’s contract might only cover the first few races of the 2025 season," which has fueled speculation about his future. These are pressing matters as the 2025 season begins and scrutiny mounts on how Doohan can handle the expectations placed upon him.
Looking back at his early career, Doohan rose through the ranks impressively, training under Red Bull’s driver academy from 2017 to 2021 before transitioning to Alpine's junior program. His background includes stints in Formula 3 and then Formula 2, where he was runner-up in 2021. Yet, the transition to F1 has its unique challenges. For Doohan, the lessons learned from last year’s limited debut will be invaluable. He recalls needing to adjust his grip on the steering wheel after experiencing pain during the race, indicating the physical and mental adaptation required at this level.
Supporters, including fellow Australian driver Oscar Piastri, are rooting for Doohan. Piastri remarked on Doohan’s right to be here, asserting, “I think Jack has proved through his junior career he deserves a chance.” Piastri’s words highlight the shared camaraderie among Australian drivers and the significance of having more representatives on the F1 stage.
At the same time, the expectations versus the reality of driving for Alpine could be overwhelming. The internal competition, especially with Colapinto waiting behind him, is likely to affect Doohan’s mindset on race days. Martin Brundle, Sky F1 broadcaster, shared insights from Mick Doohan, Jack’s father, who expressed the stress Jack feels leading up to this significant race. Brundle noted, “Jack has been reassured by his father, and yet driving every weekend with thoughts of his future isn’t ideal.”
The mounting pressure from fans and family, alongside the scrutiny from Alpine’s management, could either make or break Doohan’s burgeoning career. Discussions about his contract clauses and the looming potential of being benched early add to the mounting anxiety. Despite these challenges, Doohan has maintained positivity, vowing to enjoy every moment he spends on the track.
“I’m going to enjoy every race as if it's my last,” Doohan stated, emphasizing his commitment to performance and enjoyment of the sport. He acknowledges the added pressure but insists he must focus on racing. This attitude is necessary as he attempts to prove himself within the challenging environment of Formula 1.
With the Australian Grand Prix fast approaching, Doohan must strike the right balance between showcasing his racing capabilities and managing the weight of expectations. The spotlight shines brightly on him, and one thing is clear: the 2025 F1 season is not just about racing; it's about fighting for his place on one of the sport's highest stages.
How Doohan performs at Albert Park could very well set the tone for his season and future within the Alpine team. With all eyes on him, the question remains whether he can rise to the occasion and secure not only his seat but also the respect and recognition he seeks within the fierce world of Formula 1.