Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Alpine Confirms Doohan Exit as Colapinto Starts 2026 Prep During Mercedes PU Delays

A delayed Barcelona shakedown linked to Mercedes power‑unit integration keeps Colapinto on simulator duties.

Overview

  • Alpine issued an official statement confirming a mutual agreement for Jack Doohan to leave for 2026, thanking him and freeing him to pursue other opportunities.
  • Franco Colapinto returned to Enstone and began simulator work for his first full F1 season, with reports indicating he may skip the initial Barcelona running.
  • The team postponed its planned shakedown citing integration difficulties with the new Mercedes power unit, after originally targeting January 11 at Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya.
  • Logistics have arrived at Barcelona as Alpine reworks its early test plan, with Pierre Gasly expected to log the first miles before broader private sessions later in January.
  • Media reports say Alpine is adjusting its young‑driver roster, naming Alex Dunne as a candidate, and speculate on Doohan’s next move in Super Formula or Toyota/Haas‑linked roles, none of which are confirmed.