Breaking News: Alpine Fires Jack Doohan, Signs Franco Colapinto for Next Five Grands Prix

In a sudden shake-up within the Alpine Formula 1 team, Jack Doohan has been axed from his role as reserve driver and development driver, with the team opting to sign Argentinian driver Franco Colapinto on a five-race deal starting from the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. The news comes as a surprise, with Doohan having been with the team since 2020. Sources claim Doohan was informed of the decision this morning and will be replaced immediately. Colapinto, previously a member of Alpine’s driver academy, will step into the role, marking his F1 debut with the team. Alpine has yet to comment on the reasons behind the decision or the timeline for Doohan’s replacement.

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Alpine Shakes up F1 Driver Lineup: Colapinto to Replace Doohan

Unexpectedchange at Alpine Ahead of Emilia Romagna GP

The Formula 1 world is abuzz with news of a significant shakeup in Alpine’s driver lineup. In a surprising turn of events, the French constructor has announced that they will replace Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the next five races, starting with the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola.

Did you know? This unexpected change marks only the second lineup change of the 2023 F1 season, highlighting the impact of Alpine’s decision.

Jack Doohan: A Young Gun’s Disappointment

Jack Doohan, son of five-time motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan, joined Alpine as a reserve driver last season. This season, he was promoted to a full-time race seat alongside Esteban Ocon. However, his time in the top seat seems to have been cut short, at least for now.

Doohan has expressed his disappointment in a statement released by his management: “I’m obviously disappointed with the decision, but I respect Alpine’s need to evaluate all options. I’ll continue to work hard and be ready for any opportunities that come my way.”

Franco Colapinto: The Replacement on a Five-Race Deal

Stepping into the breach is Argentina’s Franco Colapinto, who will drive for Alpine in the next five races. Colapinto is a relative newcomer to F1, having impressed in the FIA Formula 3 Championship last season, where he finished seventh overall.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Colapinto’s progress. His performance could shape Alpine’s long-term driver strategy.

Alpine’s Strategy: Evaluating Options for the Future

Team principal Otmar Szafnauer has stated that the decision to replace Doohan is part of Alpine’s strategy to evaluate all their driver options: “We have a responsibility to evaluate all our drivers and consider what’s best for the team’s future. We believe that giving Franco this opportunity is the right thing to do.”

Oscar Piastri’s Stance: A Show of Solidarity

Australian driver Oscar Piastri, who was recently demoted from Alpine’s reserve driver role, has shown support for Jack Doohan. In an interview with Australian media, Piastri said, “Jack’s a great driver, and I’m sure he’ll get another opportunity. It’s tough, but that’s racing.”

FAQs About Alpine’s Driver Shakeup

• Q: Will Jack Doohan return to Alpine in the future? A: It’s unclear. Alpine’s decision to evaluate their driver options suggests that nothing is certain.
• Q: How has Franco Colapinto performed in F1 so far? A: Colapinto has yet to make his F1 debut. This will be his first race as a full-time driver.

The Future of Alpine’s Driver Lineup: What’s Next?

Alpine’s decision to replace Doohan with Colapinto for the next five races signals a shift in their driver strategy. With the remaining races of the season set to be crucial in the Constructors’ Championship, Alpine will be hoping that Colapinto can hit the ground running and contribute to the team’s performance.

As for Doohan, his F1 future remains uncertain. But with his talent and determination, the young Australian is likely to find another opportunity in the sport. The world of F1 fans is eagerly waiting to see how this story unfolds.

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