Apr.7 (GMM) The stress on Jack Doohan’s shoulders merely received’t let up, as footage emerges of Franco Colapinto doing a ‘TPC’ take a look at with Alpine at Monza.
On mortgage from Williams, the high-profile reserve driver didn’t journey to Japan, and now it’s clear why – he was on factory-based simulator duties all through the Suzuka race weekend, after which headed to Italy to drive the 2023 Alpine.
Many imagine fellow rookie Doohan, who crashed spectacularly in Suzuka follow whereas making an attempt to take flip 1 with DRS open, is simply on a 6-race contract.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher thinks the Australian won’t even final that lengthy.
Referring to the ever-intensifying rumours that Colapinto, 21, will likely be in Doohan’s automotive quickly, Schumacher instructed Sky Deutschland: “It’s being pushed by his personal crew, but additionally by his driving.
“He (Doohan) makes lots of errors and isn’t quick sufficient. We noticed Ryo Hirakawa get in that automotive within the first follow session and was proper on par with Pierre Gasly. Then Doohan bought in and made that massive mistake.
“In the meanwhile, he’s overwhelmed by the scenario. I’m curious to see what occurs, however he’s not sure to be on the subsequent race.”
The rumours have largely been powered by Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore, with crew boss Oliver Oakes left to attempt to play all of it down. “He’s staying,” he mentioned when requested about Doohan.
“It’s a transparent sure. He’s with us. There’s lots of stress on him, however he’s taking it effectively. My message is to go away him alone.”
As for Colapinto, he admits he’s charging for an Alpine race seat.
“I’m an Alpine driver,” he instructed the Nude Venture podcast. “I’ve a contract with them. I’m working laborious and hoping for a possibility with this crew.
“They went out of their technique to convey me in.”
