Jack Doohan, a promising talent in the world of motorsport and son of the legendary five-time MotoGP champion Mick Doohan, has secured a pivotal role with the Haas Formula 1 team. Following his departure from Alpine, where he previously served as a reserve driver and participated in six Grands Prix, the 23-year-old Australian is set to continue his journey in the premier class of racing, aiming to revitalize his professional career.
Doohan's new position at Haas as a reserve driver places him alongside Ryo Hirakawa. Hirakawa's association with the team is strengthened by technical partner Toyota, which has significantly expanded its involvement with Haas, now acting as its title sponsor. This strategic move is expected to provide a robust support structure for both reserve drivers.
The current primary drivers for Haas are the British sensation Oliver Bearman and the experienced French driver Esteban Ocon. Doohan expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter, highlighting Haas as the optimal environment for him to pursue his aspirations in Formula 1. He views this opportunity as a crucial step in maintaining his connection to the sport and pushing for a full-time racing seat in the future.
Ayao Komatsu, the team principal at Haas, emphasized the demanding nature of a reserve driver's responsibilities. He noted that staying at peak performance and being race-ready, while simultaneously immersing oneself in the team's operations, presents a considerable challenge. This is particularly true for young drivers like Doohan, who possess a strong desire to compete at the highest level of motorsport. Komatsu's remarks underscore the team's recognition of the commitment and skill required to excel in such a critical support role.
Before taking on the reserve role at Alpine, Doohan had already demonstrated his capabilities by achieving a commendable third-place finish in the Formula 2 feeder series during the 2023 season. His impressive track record in junior categories suggests a driver with significant potential and a determined approach to climbing the ranks in Formula 1.
This latest development marks a significant turn in Doohan's career, offering him a fresh platform to grow and contribute to an F1 team. His ambition to race again at this elite level is clear, and his tenure with Haas could prove instrumental in shaping his future in the sport.