Jack Doohan Poised to Leave Alpine for Haas Reserve Role in 2026

Jack Doohan’s uncertain Formula 1 journey could soon take a new direction, with multiple sources indicating that the Australian may part ways with Alpine to pursue a reserve driver role at Haas for the 2026 season.

Doohan, 22, has been part of Alpine’s driver academy since 2022 and impressed during his early Formula 2 campaigns, earning several Friday practice outings. However, the French team’s shifting priorities have left his path to a full-time F1 seat increasingly unclear.

Initially, Doohan’s management ties to Flavio Briatore appeared to strengthen his prospects, especially after Briatore returned to an advisory role with Alpine earlier this year. Yet, that connection now seems to hold less sway as the team finalises its 2026 driver plans.

Reports from the Singapore paddock suggest Alpine’s shortlist for next season has narrowed to three names: retaining Franco Colapinto, recalling Doohan, or promoting Paul Aron from its junior ranks. Briatore has confirmed that the second seat alongside Pierre Gasly will be filled internally, but with Colapinto struggling for form and Aron impressing in Formula 2, Doohan once again looks set to miss out.

Doohans Spotted in Talks with Haas

Adding fuel to speculation, both Jack and his father, MotoGP legend Mick Doohan, were seen in conversation with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu during recent race weekends. The American outfit is reportedly assessing reserve driver options amid uncertainty surrounding Ollie Bearman, who sits on 10 of the 12 penalty points that would trigger a race ban.

Current Haas third driver Ryō Hirakawa is also heavily committed to Toyota’s World Endurance Championship programme, leaving the team potentially short-handed for 2026.

A move to Haas could therefore offer Doohan a lifeline, keeping him close to the Formula 1 grid while maintaining race sharpness through a possible Super Formula campaign in Japan, supported by Toyota. The manufacturer, which partners with Haas, is believed to be open to facilitating such a dual arrangement.

Alpine Door Closing

Doohan’s prospects at Alpine appear increasingly slim despite early hopes of a long-term future with the team. His lack of recent seat time contrasts sharply with Colapinto’s ongoing F1 mileage, and insiders suggest Briatore is unlikely to intervene to alter the team’s current trajectory.

If the move materialises, a switch to Haas could represent both a fresh start and a strategic step for Doohan, allowing him to remain embedded within the F1 ecosystem while positioning himself for future opportunities.

For now, the Australian’s focus appears to be on staying visible, staying prepared, and keeping his Formula 1 dream alive.

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