Jack Doohan
Jack Doohan’s Formula 1 dream may be taking a new direction — and this time, it could lead him to Japan. The Australian driver, whose future with Alpine has grown increasingly uncertain, was recently spotted at the final round of the Super GT series at Mobility Resort Motegi alongside his father, MotoGP legend Mick Doohan. Their presence immediately sparked talk of a potential switch to Japan’s premier single-seater category, Super Formula, as the 22-year-old evaluates his next career move.
Doohan’s current contract with Alpine expires at the end of the year, and with the French team confirming that its 2026 seat will go to either current driver Franco Colapinto or reserve Paul Aron, the former Formula 2 standout finds himself on the sidelines. Despite an early-season stint with Alpine, Doohan was replaced after six rounds by Colapinto at Imola, a decision that effectively froze his F1 prospects for the foreseeable future.
While Alpine insists Doohan remains “part of the program,” the lack of concrete plans has fueled speculation that he is exploring competitive alternatives. Japan’s Super Formula has become an increasingly attractive option for displaced F1 hopefuls and top-tier junior drivers, offering speed, technical challenge, and exposure — all without the crowded politics of the European paddock.
Japanese media reports claim the Doohans met with team representatives during the Motegi weekend, evaluating opportunities for 2026. Several squads operate across both Super GT and Super Formula, giving Doohan a potential entry point into the series. It’s not unprecedented — former F2 talents like Liam Lawson and Stoffel Vandoorne have used the Japanese circuit as a launchpad to, or back from, Formula 1.
Doohan’s visit also coincides with a surge of international interest in the championship. F2 frontrunners Leonardo Fornaroli and Richard Verschoor are rumored to be in similar talks, while rally star Kalle Rovanpera is already confirmed for a full-time switch to Super Formula next season.
For Doohan, who’s been patiently waiting for an F1 seat that may never materialize, Japan represents both a challenge and a lifeline — a place to rebuild momentum, prove his racecraft, and remind the motorsport world of his untapped potential. Whether this marks a permanent shift or a temporary detour, the message from Motegi is clear: Jack Doohan is not done racing — he’s simply changing tracks.