Alpine Team Principal Oliver Oakes has moved to quash speculation that Jack Doohan will be replaced in the team’s line-up before the next round of the championship, according to a report by RaceFans. The rumour mill was churning after a sponsor of Franco Colapinto hinted that he would debut for the team at Imola, the scene of the next race after Miami.
As reported by RaceFans, Oakes stated that the team has no intention at present to replace either Doohan or his teammate Pierre Gasly. “As it is today, Jack is our driver along with Pierre,” he said in today’s FIA press conference in Miami. “I think we’ve been pretty clear on that. I mean, we always evaluate it, but today that is the case.”
The speculation surrounding Doohan’s future was sparked after Colapinto’s sponsor made comments suggesting that he would be making his debut for Alpine at Imola. Colapinto was unexpectedly promoted to a Formula 1 seat at Williams last year after the team sacked Logan Sargeant at mid-season. He impressed over the course of his first nine grands prix, scoring five points. According to RaceFans, Argentina’s first F1 driver in 23 years was linked to a race seat at Alpine even before he joined the team as a reserve driver earlier this year.
Oakes, who was aware of the remarks made by Colapinto’s sponsor, acknowledged that there is considerable public interest in the possibility of Colapinto racing for the team. “I saw it, like everyone else,” he said. “I think it was a sponsor from Argentina, off-camera, giving his view on Franco and when he’s going to be in the car. I’m sure there’s a lot of people in Argentina who’d like him in the car this Sunday. I think we’ve been pretty open as a team that that’s just noise out there and Jack needs to continue doing a good job.”
The Alpine team principal emphasised that the team is committed to its current driver line-up, and that any speculation about changes is just that – speculation. As RaceFans reported, Oakes stated that Doohan and Gasly will continue to drive for the team, at least for the time being.
In related news, the 2025 Miami Grand Prix is set to take place, with many teams and drivers vying for a top spot on the podium. For more information and updates on the championship, fans can visit RaceFans for the latest news and analysis. The website provides comprehensive coverage of the Formula 1 championship, including news, results, and features. Fans can also sign up for a daily email with all the latest stories from RaceFans.
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