Doohan doubles down as Alpine reserve role takes center stage

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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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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.