Two young men in racing suits, one in a black Alpine uniform and the other in a pink BWT uniform, pose at different angles. — Doohan and Colapinto for a spot at Alpine | La Derecha Diario

Camara — Doohan and Colapinto for a spot at Alpine | La Derecha Diario

From Australia, they claim that Franco Colapinto can take Doohan's place.

A newspaper from the oceanic country highlighted the fragility of the position and the figure of Franco Colapinto.

10/03/2025 15:46:00h

Editorial Team

Days before the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season with the Melbourne Grand Prix, Australian media analyzed the debut of their driver, Jack Doohan. They also discussed the possibility of Franco Colapinto replacing him as the main driver.

Doohan will debut in Formula 1 in his home country and has the backing to keep the position for the rest of the season. The Australian driver is a registered trademark of Alpine, as he was part of the French team's development program, and his results and experience in other categories support him, being the runner-up in F3 in 2021 and third in F2 in 2023. Additionally, he is the son of motorcycle racing legend Mick Doohan.

However, Colapinto's figure emerges as a tough rival for the spot in the main line-up and according to the Sydney Morning Herald, Doohan's position is "fragile" and subject to change.

A young man with wavy brown hair is wearing a black jacket with sponsor logos in a crowded setting.

Doohan debuts in F1 at his home | La Derecha Diario

"Hard? Without a doubt. But it's the reality for Jack Doohan, whose debut at the Australian Grand Prix next weekend will have the ticking of a clock as its soundtrack, a debut at Albert Park under the imposing shadow of Alpine's diminutive new reserve driver, Franco Colapinto," the Australian media highlighted.

According to the author of the article, Matías Clayton, another point to consider is the popularity and marketing of the Argentine driver. "Colapinto's popularity in a country lacking Formula 1 drivers (and without a grand prix since 1998) has caused significant commercial interest," the article by journalist Matías Clayton highlighted. "Last year, people with insider information from the paddock suggested that Colapinto's commercial sponsors were contributing $500,000 per raceduring his brief stint with Williams. The well-connected Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Williams received $34.4 million from Alpine for that multi-year deal. Alpine's Argentine sponsor group increased," the reporter added.

A young man with a pink jersey and a blue and white flag over his shoulders, looking up against a dark blue background.

Colapinto could threaten Doohan's continuity | La Derecha Diario

Another piece of information provided by SMH is a possible performance clause requiring Doohan to achieve good results in the first 6 races of the season. Thanks to this, the native of Pilar could have a not-too-distant chance to race again in the world's top motorsport category.

It should be noted that Flavio Briatore, executive advisor of the French team, didn't provide many certainties when talking about possible roster movements. "We start the year with Pierre (Gasly) and Jack, I guarantee it. Then, we'll see during the season. I have to help the team reach a situation where it can achieve results," the businessman assured.

Two people posing together, one of them is wearing sunglasses and the other is pointing with a finger.

Briatorer with Colapinto | La Derecha Diario

For now, everything is uncertain and F1 is just starting this week. Colapinto will have to wait for his opportunity to debut with his new team and prove that he is worthy of being part of Alpine's main drivers.

➡️ Argentina