Doohan doubles down as Alpine reserve role takes center stage

Australian motorsport hopeful Jack Doohan is doubling down in 2024 on his pursuit of a Formula 1 seat by taking on a comprehensive role as Alpine's official reserve driver.

The move follows his successful stint in the same position last year when he impressed the team with his dedication and potential.

As he puts his full focus on F1 integration, Doohan has passed on undertaking a third complete season in the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

Therefore, the 21-year-old son of MotoGP legend Mick Doohan will dedicate himself solely to supporting Alpine's F1 aspirations.

He will work closely alongside Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon, gleaning valuable insights and honing his skills in preparation for a potential future race seat.

• Read also: Ocon stresses 'crucial' mid-season Alpine status over starting point

“All European races I'll be in the sim,” he told Speedcafe. “Anything more than three hours away, I have to be at the track.

“Then hopefully, for most races, I'm in the sim. If it's easy to get to the track I will. If not, I'll be on standby.”

Last year, like in 2022, Doohan was handed a pair of FP1 outings, taking to the track on Friday in Mexico City and in Abu Dhabi.

The Aussie is expecting more of the same this season but he’s also earmarked for several private test sessions at the wheel of Alpine’s 2022-spec car, consistent with F1’s regulations.

“Yeah, 10 test days in the F1 car,” he confirmed. “The first one is actually coming up on February 14 in the 2021 car in Barcelona.

“Then, the following [outings] will be in the 2022 car, which is the current spec of cars, which would be great.”

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