The Australian Grand Prix is just around the corner and Formula 1 fans are preparing for the return of on track action after the winter break.
Pre-season testing has given a glimpse into how the grid might shape up in Melbourne, but only qualifying will provide a true indication of this season’s early pecking order.
For the first time since 2019, the Australian Grand Prix hosts the opening race of the year and provides two drivers with some early home support.
McLaren driver Oscar Piastri will hope he can record his first home podium after top 10 finishes in his previous two visits.
Karun Chandhok has backed Piastri to win the race which would be the perfect start to his 2025 title challenge.
After Daniel Ricciardo was dropped by RB midway through last year, the role of the second Aussie on the grid falls to new Alpine star Jack Doohan.
Doohan made his Formula 1 debut at the end of last season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after Esteban Ocon left the team early to join up with Haas.
However, the youngster hasn’t had the easiest start to life in the paddock.
A report from Motorsport has shared more details about the plans Alpine have put in place for his home Grand Prix.
Alpine implement Jack Doohan strategy for the Australian Grand Prix
The 22-year-old is arguably in the most precarious position on the grid heading into the season opener.
Doohan’s contract only runs for a few races, meaning he needs to immediately hit the ground running in Melbourne.
Alpine had a decent run during pre-season testing with Pierre Gasly standing out and continuing the form he showed at the end of last season.
Doohan struggled in comparison to Gasly although it’s harsh to compare the rookie’s performance to the in-form one-time race winner.
READ MORE: Who is Alpine F1 driver Jack Doohan? All to know from his girlfriend to dad
During the F1 75 livery launch event, Alpine’s press team stepped in after Doohan had to field several questions about the signing of Franco Colapinto as their new reserve driver.
Alpine didn’t want Doohan taking part in any one-on-one interviews in Bahrain and the report from Motorsport provides more details about the protection he’s set to be offered at Albert Park.
While Alpine expect questions about Doohan to be repeated next week, they’re set to continue their policy of blocking repeated questions about his position in relation to the Argentinian.
Unfortunately, Alpine’s business over the winter has created a scenario where it seems unlikely that Doohan will be able to see out the season without producing some incredible performances.
Franco Colapinto may no longer be the straightforward choice for Alpine
Colapinto was a name only known to die-hard Formula 2 fans this time last year, but his cameos with Williams earned him plenty of plaudits and millions of fans in his native Argentina.
It also helped Williams earn plenty of money in sponsorship deals, something Alpine will also hope to benefit from.
However, Colapinto hasn’t attracted as many sponsors to Alpine as expected which may give Doohan longer to establish himself in the team than expected.
READ MORE: All you need to know about Alpine F1 Team from team principal to lineage
If Doohan’s position ends up becoming untenable due to poor performance rather than the desperate need to promote Colapinto, then another option exists.
Alpine insiders believe Paul Aron is their strongest candidate but the young Estonian may have to be patient to wait his turn.
It means a fascinting sub-plot is already bubbling away in Formula 1’s midfield while many people will be keeping a close eye on Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and whether McLaren can continue their domination from the end of last season.
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