Jack Doohan's Formula 1 debut at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has divided the paddock, with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko's frank assessment of the 21-year-old's performance. Although the recently Alpine-promoted Australian driver finished his first race in P15, the low-key start raised questions about his readiness to shine in motorsport's elite category.
Briatore Warning: Perform or Perish
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore added fuel to the fire by describing a ruthless approach to assessing driver performance. In a worrying statement, he assured fans that Alpine would “start the year with Pierre and Jack,” but hinted that driver changes could follow if results did not meet expectations.
“The only thing we can be sure of is death,” Briatore said. “If there is a driver who is not progressing or not bringing results, I change him. You can’t be emotional in F1.”
With Briatore's reputation for quick decision-making, Doohan will face immense pressure to perform in the 2025 season or risk being replaced.
A stronger Alpine raises the stakes
Alpine's strong comeback in 2024, with double podium finishes and regular points finishes, has raised expectations. The team's new shape leaves little room for underperformance, especially with rookies like Doohan entering a competitive field filled with seasoned veterans.
Doohan's task is clear: adapt quickly, deliver results and demonstrate the consistency that earned him a chance in Formula 1. But with Colapinto waiting his turn and Briatore's uncompromising approach hovering, the margin of The Australian's error is very slight.
What's next for Jack Doohan?
Doohan's debut may not have lived up to expectations, but the story is far from over. With the support of Alpine and a full season ahead of him, the young driver has time to flourish in his role. However, the pressure to succeed will only intensify as Alpine looks to capitalize on its improved pace and compete with the mid-pack heavyweights.
The 2025 season will be a defining chapter for Doohan's career. With Helmut Marko and Flavio Briatore watching closely, the Australian must rise to the challenge—or risk becoming the latest rookie casualty in Formula 1's unforgiving environment.
