Oakes stated that Doohan has the 'complete backing' of Alpine.
"No regular driver enjoys feeling that kind of pressure."
By GMM
20 March 2025 - 16:52
Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes has defended the decision to sign four reserve drivers for the 2025 season. Rookie Jack Doohan is currently under intense pressure, with team advisor Flavio Briatore seemingly preparing Franco Colapinto to take over the race seat at some point.
"I have one person pursuing my position," remarked the Australian rookie, "but now we actually have four. If you weren’t aware, we have four reserves. All of them, not just Franco, likely want my seat and possibly Pierre's as well."
Indeed, Paul Aron was signed late in 2024, followed by Colapinto and Ryo Hirakawa, with the most recent addition being Kush Maini, a 24-year-old Formula 2 driver from India.
Oakes justifies the crowded lineup. "Paul was already part of our program, and the chance to bring in Franco was a future-oriented decision. The driver market is always changing, and we aimed to have long-term options. Additionally, we require these reserve drivers for TPC testing, the simulator, and more."
Oakes recognizes the significant pressure on Doohan but emphasized, "Clearly, no regular driver enjoys experiencing pressure like that. However, Pierre and Jack are aware that they have our complete support."
Alpine F1 Team - Renault
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Oakes stated that Doohan has the 'complete backing' of Alpine.
Formula 1 | Alpine's head, Oliver Oakes, has stood by the team's choice to contract four reserve drivers for the 2025 season. The strain on newcomer Jack (…)