On Wednesday morning, it was announced that Argentine driver Franco Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan’s seat for Alpine for the next five races. The announcement follows mounting speculation about Doohan’s seat after a challenging start to his rookie season and comes amid changes within the team’s leadership, with Flavio Briatore replacing Oliver Oakes as the team principal.

Jack Doohan has been relieved of his race seat after six rounds in which he showed flashes of speed but struggled to deliver consistent results. Despite outqualifying teammate Pierre Gasly for the first time at last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, Doohan’s race ended in retirement following a first-corner collision with Racing Bull’s Liam Lawson.

The Australian remains without a point in 2025 and has been involved in several incidents, including crashes in Australia and Japan. Doohan will remain with Alpine as a reserve driver, following a move that mirrors Red Bull’s recent decision to rotate its own young talent earlier in the season.

Colapinto Gets His Chance

Colapinto steps up from his reserve role at Alpine after joining the team from Williams in January. The Argentine impressed during a nine-race stint with Williams last season, scoring points in Baku and Austin, though his rookie campaign also included high-profile crashes in Brazil and Las Vegas.

Alpine’s decision to promote Colapinto is set for a five-race period, covering the Grands Prix from Imola through Austria. The team will then review its driver lineup before the British Grand Prix and determine the next steps for the remainder of the season.

Alpine is Ready to Act

This move comes at a crucial juncture for Alpine, as the team seeks to maximize its performance in a highly competitive midfield. While Pierre Gasly has managed to bring home points, Alpine has struggled to consistently field two strong finishers. 

The team’s management has also undergone recent changes, with Flavio Briatore stepping in as executive advisor and assuming team principal duties following Oliver Oakes’ resignation. The driver change announcement came only 12 hours after Oakes stepped down.

Alpine’s leadership shift, combined with the driver change, signals their intent to adapt quickly and stay competitive as the season progresses, leaving fans on the edge of their seats to watch what is next for the French team.