Mick Doohan criticises Alpine over handling of Jack Doohan’s F1 future

Mick Doohan has criticised Alpine for what he described as unfair treatment of his son, Jack Doohan, following the young Australian’s brief stint with the team at the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Early uncertainty and swift demotion

Just six rounds into the 2025 campaign, Alpine announced a driver swap that saw Doohan demoted to a reserve role. He ultimately left the team at the start of 2026, bringing a short and turbulent chapter with the Enstone-based squad to a close.

“I really can't comment on that, but I think it was unfair,” he said. “It was from the start. They replaced a driver before the season even began. And, basically, that was it.”

He also pointed to his son’s contractual position and status within Alpine’s junior programme, implying that expectations had shifted without explanation.

“My son had a long-term contract; he was Alpine's first junior driver to arrive. It was clear, for reasons I can't say, that a different direction was taken,” Doohan added. “And that's all there is to it.”

Focus on racing and a new opportunity

Despite the disappointment, Mick Doohan stressed that his son has remained resilient and focused on racing. Jack Doohan is currently competing in Barcelona in the European Le Mans Series, continuing his career away from the F1 grid for now.

Shortly after his departure from Alpine, Haas confirmed it had secured the services of the 23-year-old as a reserve driver. Mick Doohan made clear that a full-time return to Formula 1 remains the ultimate goal, while also taking a final swipe at Alpine’s approach.

“He's with Haas F1 now, as a reserve driver, looking to secure a seat and with a team that's more committed to contracts,” he said.