MELBOURNE: Jack Doohan has downplayed concerns regarding Franco Colapinto potentially taking his place at Alpine, asserting that he has a contract for "at least this year, if not longer". As he prepares for his inaugural F1 season and the home Grand Prix, Doohan finds himself under pressure, facing speculation that he must demonstrate his capability within three to five races.
Earlier this year, Alpine recruited promising driver Franco Colapinto as a reserve. Colapinto, who previously left a mark during his time with Williams, also arrives with substantial sponsorship support.
In discussions with media, including Wide World of Sports, Doohan indicated he hadn’t let Colapinto’s addition weigh on his mind. “There’s no point in dwelling on rumours or discussing them; I have a contract for at least this year, possibly more,” he stated. He expressed a desire to participate in future home Grand Prix events and acknowledged that he wouldn’t let uncertainties distract him from his focus.
Having previously been part of the Alpine Academy, Doohan does not carry any sponsorship revenue, which poses challenges for a team that has made recent cuts amid financial difficulties. In contrast, Colapinto’s backing from affluent Argentine investors could significantly bolster his case. Argentina is also negotiating a potential return to the F1 calendar, a scenario that would be enhanced by the presence of a local driver.
Doohan insisted that he doesn’t perceive any additional pressure from Colapinto or other reserve drivers. “I must perform every time I’m in the car, no matter who is aiming for my position,” he remarked. He pointed out that there are four reserve drivers vying for his seat — and possibly for Pierre Gasly’s — highlighting that competition has always been a part of his journey, having desired these positions himself as a reserve driver for the past two years.
"I plan to relish every race as if it were my last, as I want to cherish every experience I have in the car," he concluded. With practice for the Australian Grand Prix set to commence on Friday, the upcoming race is sure to be a pivotal moment for Doohan.