Alpine F1 has announced that reserve driver Franco Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan for the next five rounds of the 2025 Formula 1 season, starting with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
The move marks a strategic mid-season shift as the team embarks on a driver rotation programme alongside Pierre Gasly.
The announcement follows a dramatic leadership shake-up on Tuesday with Team Principal Oliver Oakes resigning, and Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore stepping in to oversee racing operations.
Briatore said the decision reflects Alpine’s focus on making a “complete and fair assessment” of their talent ahead of the pivotal 2026 season.
“We’re in a competitive position and believe rotating drivers now gives us clarity for the long-term,” said Briatore.
Doohan, who debuted full-time this year, has endured a rough start to the season—most recently crashing out on Lap 1 in Miami.
Alpine emphasized that Doohan remains an “integral part” of the team and will serve as first-choice reserve driver during this rotation.
Colapinto, who scored points for Williams in 2024 as a substitute, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I’ll give it everything over the next five races to deliver results,” he said.
Doohan responded with professionalism, acknowledging the team’s vision: “This is tough, but I’ll stay committed and continue pushing for my goals.”
The Argentine will take over from Imola through to Silverstone, after which Alpine will reassess its line-up—marking a crucial evaluation period as F1’s competitive field inches closer heading into the next regulations cycle.