Herbert: I know Briatore, if Doohan doesn't deliver Colapinto is in

Pierre Gasly remains the cornerstone of Alpine's campaign this year, with Doohan set to take the second seat on the grid in March. Meanwhile, Colapinto, the 2024 Formula 2 standout, waits in the wings as a reserve driver.

However, speculation suggests that Colapinto, strongly backed by Flavio Briatore, could step in if Doohan struggles.

Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes has publicly reassured that Doohan will get his fair opportunity. Yet, the upcoming pre-season tests in Bahrain next month could offer a glimpse into the team’s intentions. Will Alpine use the three days to evaluate both Doohan and Colapinto before making a decision for the Australian Grand Prix? Or will they stick to their word and allow Doohan to prove himself without interference?

Ex-Formula 1 driver and FIA steward Johnny Herbert weighed in on the situation at Alpine, stating that Doohan’s position is anything but secure:

“I think Jack Doohan will believe he’s on borrowed time already. When I’m speaking to people, they feel exactly the same thing. Doohan has got to deliver, and if he doesn’t deliver against Pierre Gasly, I know Flavio Briatore very well—Doohan will be out. He’ll be out as quick as he blinks. So, the pressure’s on his shoulders now for him to perform."

Herbert highlighted the tough realities of competing in Formula 1: “That’s part of the sport, unfortunately. Especially in Formula 1, it’s not always full of budding roses. It’s a massive amount of pressure for Doohan, but that’s what the deal is. You have to get in the car and you have to perform.”

He also pointed out Gasly’s firm footing within the team, making Doohan’s challenge even steeper: “Gasly is a driver that is very comfortable in the team at the present time. There’s a lot of support for him in that team, obviously being a Frenchman. But now it’s up to Doohan. He’s got a massive amount of pressure on his shoulders because Franco Colapinto will be there in the back of the garage.”

Herbert emphasised the psychological challenge of competing with a promising talent waiting in the wings: “He’ll be there on TV with him sort of over the shoulder of Briatore and wherever it may be. And that’s where all those little elements of doubt start to come into play. And doubt is something you definitely do not want.”

With Briatore’s history of bold moves and a proven eye for talent—famously signing Michael Schumacher at Benetton and managing Fernando Alonso to two world titles at Renault—Colapinto's presence as a favourite cannot be ignored.

While Alpine maintains that Doohan will have his chance, the team’s actions in the coming weeks, particularly in Bahrain, could tell a different story. For Doohan, the task is clear: deliver or risk being replaced by Colapinto, who is ready to seize his opportunity.