Photo: Alpine Racing
Jack Doohan will contest Formula 1 free practice sessions in both Mexico and Abu Dhabi with Alpine as part of 2022’s new requirement to field rookies.
The Australian is currently competing for Virtuosi Racing in Formula 2, and sits fourth in the standings with three race wins and two pole positions to his name in his rookie season.
Previously a Red Bull athlete, he joined the Alpine Academy in February as he believed the Enstone squad offered him better opportunities.
Countryman Oscar Piastri’s contractual dispute with Alpine and subsequent departure for McLaren at the end of the year paved the way for Doohan to enjoy his F1 weekend debut in 2022.
“I’m extremely grateful to Alpine for giving me this opportunity to drive in free practice in Mexico,” he said.
“It’s always a huge honour to be entrusted to drive an F1 car, so to have the opportunity on a grand prix weekend is very special. Ultimately, the aim is to be doing this every week and this experience is another step closer to achieving that goal.
“I’ve prepared as best as I can, and I think it’s going to be very exciting to experience the car at this type of circuit with the high altitude and very high top speed. I’ll work hard on the day, do everything the team sets out and, at the same time, enjoy the moment as I know it’s going to be a unique opportunity.”
Mexico won’t be Doohan’s first taste of F1 machinery as he already drove the A521 from 2021 in private tests performed in Qatar, Monza and the Hungaroring earlier this year, and then this season’s A522 in a filming day at the Italian circuit last month.
“We are very pleased to announce Jack will join the team in Mexico and take over driving duties for FP1,” said team principal Otmar Szafnauer.
“We have all been impressed with Jack’s progression across many areas this season and he’s deserving of this chance as we continue to nurture his high potential.
“It’s important to give our young drivers opportunities to test F1 cars and our Academy programme has proven to be successful in doing just that. We expect Jack to work hard during the session and take as much as he can from the experience of being involved in an F1 grand prix weekend.”
Doohan will drive Esteban Ocon’s car in FP1 in Mexico this Friday before taking over the sister car of Fernando Alonso at the season-ending round at Abu Dhabi, where he will also contest the F2 finale.