MELBOURNE: Australian Jack Doohan will serve as a reserve driver for the Haas Formula One team this season following his split from Renault-owned Alpine.
The 23-year-old, son of motorcycle legend Mick Doohan, started six races for Alpine last year but was later dropped and replaced by Argentine Franco Colapinto.
Doohan joins Japan’s Ryo Hirakawa, 31, on the U.S.-owned Haas reserve roster. The Australian said the move offered the right platform to stay connected to the sport.“It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula One career,” Doohan said of the Toyota-backed team.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu highlighted Doohan’s prior experience as a reserve driver with Alpine as a key asset.“The dedication required to remain sharp and prepared to race while getting to know how the team works is challenging for any driver — especially one who’s still very keen to race again at this level,” Komatsu said.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team and benefiting from his contributions.”The Formula One season begins with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8.
