In a special event celebrating Australian motorsport royalty, Mick Doohan and his son Jack will take to the track at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit during next week’s Australian GP weekend.
This demonstration runs will mark a significant milestone: 30 years since Mick Doohan's first of five dominant 500cc motorcycle World Championship titles.
The Australian rider will take to the track saddling a modern production MotoGP Honda RCV213 while Alpine F1 reserve Jack Doohan will have a chance to sample a period 2000 Benetton B200 Formula 1 car.
The classic machine – once steered by Giancarlo Fisichella and Alexander Wurz – holds a special connection to the Alpine outfit as it was designed and built in the French team’s current F1 headquarters at Enstone in the UK.
“I’m so excited to be on track with my Dad in Albert Park during the Australian Grand Prix weekend,” said Jack. “It’s actually the first time we have shared a track together with me in a car and him on a bike so that will be an incredibly special moment.
“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate his success in front of the Australian fans. And, for me, it’s a unique opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car around such an iconic track.
“Hopefully next year it will be the real thing! That’s my target and I’m working hard to achieving my ultimate dream.”
Jack’s father was grateful to the Australian GP organizers and to Formula 1 “for the amazing opportunity” to share the track with his son on the occasion of his special 30-year milestone.
“Any time I can jump on a bike at these types of events, it’s always a real pleasure,” added Mick.
“It marks 30 years since my first world title back in 1994. Time does go by so quickly, as now, I’m going to be on track with my son, which will be a truly special moment for both of us.
“I continue to support Jack and support his career endeavours working towards the goal of racing in Formula 1. We’re both very much excited to putting on a show in front of the home fans in Melbourne over the Grand Prix weekend at Albert Park.”
The Doohan Demonstration Laps will take place on Saturday March 23 at 0955 and 1515, and Sunday March 24 at 1335 local time.
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has revealed that nine Formula 1 teams stand in opposition…
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell led the field in a chilly but trouble-free first practice…
Full results from Free Practice 1 for the Las Vegas Grand Prix in the United…
Aston Martin performance director Tom McCullough has shed some light on why the team’s former…
The FIA has issued a pivotal Technical Directive to F1 teams ahead of this weekend’s…
The abrupt removal last week of FIA race director Niels Wittich with just three races…