Jack Doohan’s family ‘power’ could earn him an F1 seat in 2026 over Yuki Tsunoda

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Jack Doohan could re-enter the frame for a Formula 1 seat as Haas consider Esteban Ocon’s future within the team.

The Australian driver’s F1 career has lasted just seven races, having replaced Esteban Ocon at Alpine at the end of 2024. After six difficult races in 2025, Doohan was dropped, with Franco Colapinto replacing him.

Jack Doohan has a new F1 team 👀 does he deserve another shot in F1 with Haas?

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Doohan did not ‘enjoy being an F1 driver’, as he endured relentless pressure from Flavio Briatore. Since then, he has joined Haas as a test and reserve driver, and he could be back on the grid as soon as this year.

Ocon could lose his seat mid-season as his results continue to disappoint and his relationship with Ayao Komatsu and the rest of Haas deteriorates. Should the team act and make a driver change, Doohan could be best positioned to land the drive.

Jack Doohan’s family ‘power’ could see him replace Esteban Ocon if Haas drop him midway through 2026

According to a report from Autonocion, ‘several names are being considered’ by Haas as potential replacements for Ocon, if he is to be dropped midway through the year.

Among them is Yuki Tsunoda, who is also serving as a test and reserve driver in 2026, but with Red Bull. The Japanese driver is looking to find a way back onto the grid for 2027.

Tsunoda has been linked with Haas, but his connections with Honda could prove an issue, as the American outfit are heavily supported by Japanese rivals Toyota. The report also notes that his name is being mentioned ‘less frequently at this time.’

This could give Doohan a huge advantage, especially when his name holds huge importance in the paddock. His father, Mick Doohan, is a motorsport legend, having won five MotoGP titles, and has supported his son’s F1 ventures closely.

Doohan’s ‘family’s power and financial resources should not be underestimated.’ It would suggest that he would be ahead of Tsunoda in the pecking order to replace Ocon, despite his limited F1 experience.

READ MORE: Who is Jack Doohan? All you need to know, including his MotoGP icon dad

Haas are doubtful about Ryo Hirakawa’s speed

Other options that Haas are considering include fellow reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa. Many might expect him to be the frontrunner for the seat, given his strong ties to Toyota and their endurance programme.

He is the senior figure within the team’s pool of reserve drivers, having had numerous FP1 outings with Alpine and Haas. However, the team has internal ‘doubts’ about his overall pace, which could limit his chances of replacing Ocon.

Another candidate is Ferrari’s Rafael Camara. The Brazilian is proving to be a real talent in Formula 2, and with Haas’ relationship with the Maranello outfit, he could make the step up to F1 early.