According to Ralf Schumacher, Jack Doohan is expected to keep his Alpine seat at least until the summer break.
Jack Doohan‘s Formula 1 adventure began amid uncertainty and the feeling that Franco Colapinto might suddenly be promoted to the second driver role in place of the Australian. After the first five races of the season, the son of former motorcycle champion Mick Doohan has managed to hold on to his Alpine seat by improving his performance levels—despite a heavy crash at Turn 1 in Suzuka.
According to reports from Ralf Schumacher, Doohan is expected to keep his place at least until the summer break, thanks to a major sponsor bringing around €10 million into Alpine’s coffers. Here’s how the former German driver analyzed the situation: I don’t want to be as harsh as Helmut Marko, who called him a third-rate driver, because I think he’s a good driver. But compared to the other rookies, it seems clear to me that he’s at risk of not finishing the season
Ralf Schumacher then added: “I’ve heard Doohan has €10 million in sponsorship, and unless more money comes in from Colapinto, he will remain with the team. In any case, Flavio Briatore always knows how to surprise.”