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Jack Doohan (Source: X)
Alpine F1 Team has confirmed that reserve driver Jack Doohan will step in for Esteban Ocon during the first free practice session (FP1) at the Canadian Grand Prix this Friday. This move comes in compliance with the sport's regulations, which mandate that each team must run a rookie driver in two FP1 sessions per season.
Doohan, who fits the rookie criteria with fewer than two Grand Prix starts, is eager to make his debut at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. “Excited to get out on track in Montreal for FP1,” he said. “It will be my first time driving at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, which I am looking forward to. I am grateful to the team for the opportunity to get more track time, and also familiarise myself with 2024 machinery early in the season.”
This session will be Doohan’s fifth FP1 appearance with Alpine, following his previous outings in Mexico and Abu Dhabi over the last two seasons. The 21-year-old Australian, who finished as runner-up in the FIA Formula 3 Championship and placed third in last year’s Formula 2 standings, is using these opportunities to cement his bid for a full-time F1 seat.
Will Jack Doohan replace outgoing Ocon permanently?
Alpine’s decision to run Doohan comes as the team announces their impending split with Esteban Ocon at the end of the season, concluding a five-year partnership. This development means at least one seat will be available at the Renault-backed team for the 2024 season. Pierre Gasly’s position with the team also remains under review.
Beyond his FP1 duties, Doohan has been integral to Alpine’s development efforts, participating in several test sessions and working extensively in the simulator at the team’s Enstone base. His most recent test session was with the 2022-spec A522 car at Zandvoort.
As the Canadian Grand Prix weekend approaches, all eyes will be on Jack Doohan as he takes to the track, showcasing his potential and aiming to make a strong impression on the team and the wider F1 community.