Rising Star Jack Doohan Set to Replace Esteban Ocon in FP1 at F1 Canadian GP
Alpine F1 Team has announced a shake-up for this weekend’s Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, as reserve driver Jack Doohan will step in for Esteban Ocon during the opening practice session. Doohan, who has been serving as Alpine’s reserve driver since 2023, previously showcased his talents in FP1 sessions in Mexico and Abu Dhabi last season, as well as during the annual post-season test.
In adherence to current FIA regulations, each full-time race driver must relinquish one FP1 session to provide a rookie driver with the opportunity to participate. This rule ensures that new talent gets adequate exposure and experience, and Alpine will be fulfilling the first of its two required FP1 sessions of the 2024 season at the iconic Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Doohan will get behind the wheel of the A524 car for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his fledgling career.
Jack Doohan, the son of motorcycle racing legend Mick Doohan, is widely regarded as a promising talent within the racing community. His participation this weekend could very well be an audition for a more permanent role, as he is considered a potential candidate to replace the outgoing Esteban Ocon at the Enstone-based team in 2025.
Alpine F1 Team Reserve Driver" />Bruno Famin, Alpine’s team principal, expressed confidence in the young driver’s capabilities: “In Canada, we have decided to use the first mandatory young driver Free Practice 1, with Jack Doohan in the car in place of Esteban. With Jack’s great work in the simulator in recent races, we can count on his valuable feedback in Montreal.”
Doohan himself expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m really excited to get out on track in Montréal for FP1. 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 to familiarize myself with 2024 machinery early in the season. This will also help with the work I am doing in the simulator, particularly at the European rounds.”
He further elaborated on his goals for the session: “My focus will be on doing the best for the team and maximizing the session for both drivers, looking at certain test items and understanding the new track surface.”
Doohan’s entry into the FP1 session is not merely a formality but a strategic move by Alpine to integrate his feedback into their development process. His simulator work has been highly praised by the team, and this on-track experience will only augment his contributions. As the son of a motorsport legend, Jack Doohan carries not just a famous surname but also a burgeoning reputation of his own.
The Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a challenging circuit known for its high-speed straights and technical corners, providing an ideal proving ground for young drivers like Doohan. His performance here could significantly impact his career trajectory, providing him with invaluable experience that could see him graduate to a full-time race seat in the near future.
For fans of both Alpine and Formula 1, this weekend’s FP1 session is set to be an exciting watch as Doohan takes on the legendary circuit, potentially setting the stage for a new chapter in his racing career. All eyes will be on the young Australian to see how he copes with the pressures and challenges of driving at the highest level.