F1 expert opens up on driver's SIX-RACE 2025 contract

Jack Doohan and Daniel Ricciardo share a joke at the Canadian Grand Prix — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

F1 expert opens up on driver's SIX-RACE 2025 contract

A F1 star has a performance deadline in 2025

Originally written by Sheona Mountford. This version is a translation.

Tuesday 14 January 2025 21:30

A 2025 Formula 1 driver has been warned that he may have only six races to secure his seat.

Four rookies will make their full-time debuts in 2025, with Jack Doohan, Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar all replacing more experienced drivers, with Ollie Bearman coming into Haas after breaking the rookie limit of two races last season.

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The Australian Doohan was the team’s reserve driver in 2023, with his work behind the scenes at Alpine enough to secure him a full-time seat for this season.

Doohan made his official debut with the team at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he finished P15 in the race as his team claimed sixth in the constructors’ championship following a turbulent year.

Jack Doohan made his F1 debut in Abu Dhabi

Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan complete Alpine's 2024 lineup

Will Doohan be axed from Alpine?

The Argentine driver impressed on his debut at the end of 2024, but failed to claim a full-time drive on the grid for this season.

It is now understood that if Doohan fails to perform at Alpine, Colapinto will be brought in as a replacement midway through the season.

Could we see Franco Colapinto at Alpine?

According to F1 paddock photographer, Kym Illman, Doohan has been handed a performance deadline with talks of the Aussie being replaced a mere six races into the 2025 season.

“I understand from various reports that his contract is only for six races, but where does that put us in the season? Well, the sixth race is Miami, could that be Jack’s last race?” Illman said via his YouTube channel.

“Well certainly Jack’s in the box seat, he’s the one in the car, if he does well, that’s going to mean no chance for Franco Colapinto.”

Red Bull Williams Alpine Franco Colapinto Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Jack Doohan