Doohan call up by Alpine for FP1 in Mexico

The 19-year-old son of five times 500cc motorcycle world champion, and living legend, Mick Doohan will replace regular race driver Esteban Ocon in the opening session at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

Teams must run rookie drivers in two practice sessions this season and Doohan will also fill that role at next month's Abu Dhabi season-ender.

The Formula 2 driver has driven the Alpine A522 car already in a 100km filming day with demonstration tyres at Monza in September. The Australian has also tested last year's car privately on several occasions this season.

"Ultimately, the aim is to be doing this every week and this experience is another step closer to achieving that goal," said Doohan.

"I've prepared as best as I can, and I think it's going to be very exciting to experience the car at this type of circuit with the high altitude and very high top speed."

Alpine team boss Otmar Szafnauer said it was important to give young drivers experience: "We have all been impressed with Jack's progression across many areas this season and he's deserving of this chance as we continue to nurture his high potential.

Alpine will have Ocon and fellow Frenchman Pierre Gasly racing for them next season but Doohan, who is fourth in the 2022 F2 standings with the final round in Abu Dhabi remaining, looks likely to be their reserve.

Fellow Australian Oscar Piastri was Alpine's reserve this season but he has signed to race for McLaren next year.