Mick Doohan takes aim at ‘unfair’ Alpine over the reasons for his son Jack Doohan’s F1 exit

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Mick Doohan has taken aim at Alpine over his son Jack Doohan’s exit from Formula 1. 

Before the start of the 2025 campaign, Jack, 23, was one of six rookies taking part in their first full season in F1. 

The Australian was named as Alpine driver alongside the experienced Frenchman, Pierre Gasly.

However, following a string of disappointing results, Jack was replaced by Franco Colapinto on the back of the Miami Grand Prix.

After being replaced by Colapinto and spending the rest of the year as a reserve driver, Jack officially left Alpine at the end of 2025. For 2026, Jack has taken on the role of reserve driver for Haas. 

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Mick Doohan takes aim at Alpine over Jack Doohan’s F1 exit

Speaking recently to Spanish news outlet Marca, Jack’s father, Mick, who is a MotoGP icon, aimed several digs at Alpine.

Mick labelled the situation as ‘unfair’ and claimed that it was ‘clear’ the team chose a ‘different direction’. 

He also praised Jack’s resilience as he looks to secure a return to F1 ahead of the 2027 season.

Mick said: “I really can’t comment on that. But I think it was unfair. It was from the start. They replaced a driver before the season even began. And basically, that was it.

“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. And that’s all there is to it.

“Look, Jack is a strong young man, and his plan is… He’s currently racing in Barcelona in a race car. He’s with Haas F1 now, as a reserve driver, looking to secure a seat, perhaps with a team that’s more committed to contracts.”

READ MORE: Jack Doohan didn’t ‘enjoy being a Formula 1 driver’ amid Flavio Briatore pressure at Alpine

Jack Doohan reflects on ‘the toughest 12 months’ of his life

Speaking last month to the F1 official website, Jack spoke about having to deal with the ordeal of losing his seat in the sport. 

He said: “It was a tough period. Without being too depressive, it was sort of a moment that you look forward to your whole life, of being an F1 driver.

“Unfortunately, I would say from October 2024 to maybe even October 2025, it was probably one of the toughest 12 months of my young life. To be honest, it was a big shame, but I’m trying to put that behind me, to start fresh.

“It would obviously be a dream to be able to have the opportunity [to race in F1] again, in an environment that is much more… I think it should always be ruthless, but more welcoming and on an even playing field.”