Jack Doohan has not competed in a Formula 1 Grand Prix, clarifying a common misconception regarding his tenure in the sport. While the Australian driver has served as an official reserve driver for the BWT Alpine F1 Team since 2023, he was officially announced as a permanent race driver for the 2025 season on August 23, 2024. He will replace Esteban Ocon, marking his transition from developmental roles to a full-time grid position.
How did Jack Doohan reach Formula 1?
Jack Doohan’s path to the Formula 1 grid follows a traditional progression through the FIA feeder series. According to the official Formula 1 website, Doohan finished third in the 2023 Formula 2 Championship, securing three race victories during that campaign.
Before his promotion to the Alpine race seat, Doohan participated in multiple Free Practice 1 (FP1) sessions. These sessions allowed him to gain experience in current-specification machinery under FIA regulations. His appointment as a full-time driver for 2025 comes after he served as the team’s reserve driver for two consecutive seasons, during which he focused on simulator development and trackside support.
Why is there confusion regarding his F1 tenure?
The confusion surrounding Doohan’s "time" in Formula 1 likely stems from his high-profile presence in the paddock and his active participation in official team duties. As reported by Motorsport.com, reserve drivers often appear in team gear, attend technical debriefs, and drive during sanctioned test days. Because Doohan has been integrated into the Alpine garage since joining their academy in 2022, casual observers may conflate his presence in the team structure with an active race career.
Unlike a driver who enters the sport through a mid-season replacement, Doohan’s role has remained strictly developmental. He has not replaced a driver for a race weekend, which differentiates his current status from drivers like Oliver Bearman or Liam Lawson, both of whom made their Grand Prix debuts as substitutes.
What to expect for the 2025 season
With the announcement confirmed by Alpine, Doohan is set to partner Pierre Gasly for the 2025 season. This move represents a strategic shift for the Enstone-based team, which is opting to promote from within its academy program.
- Team: BWT Alpine F1 Team
- Teammate: Pierre Gasly
- Status: Full-time race driver for 2025
- Previous Role: Reserve Driver (2023–2024)
According to statements released by Alpine, the team values the continuity Doohan brings after his extensive time working with the engineering staff. His 2025 campaign will serve as his official rookie season in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.