Alpine F1 advisor Flavio Briatore has confirmed the French marque’s interest in Franco Colapinto, putting pressure on Jack Doohan.
Alpine’s driver line-up for next year seems finalized with Doohan and Pierre Gasly.
Even before Doohan’s F1 debut in Abu Dhabi, there were speculations about his future with Alpine.
Briatore was initially keen on signing Colapinto, but his interest waned due to Colapinto’s crashes and the high cost of transferring him from Williams.
Briatore told German publication Auto Motor und Sport: “I’m interested in fast drivers. Colapinto impressed, but our contracts with Gasly, Doohan, and Aron are set for next season.
“If there’s a chance to get Colapinto for 2026, we’ll consider it. However, caution is needed in evaluating drivers.
“In today’s market, there are many talented drivers in Formula 2 and Formula 3. We are focusing on our promising academy drivers rather than spreading ourselves thin.
“Our attention will be on Aron, Mini, and Martins.”
Doohan faces immediate pressure in 2025
Doohan will have to perform under pressure in 2025.
The 21-year-old had a taste of F1 in Abu Dhabi, stepping in for Ocon after he reached an agreement with Briatore to give up his spot.
In exchange, Ocon could participate in the post-season Abu Dhabi test.