Everything seemed to indicate that the Bahrain Grand Prix scheduled for this weekend would be the setting for Franco Colapinto's debut with Alpine in the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship. However, he will still have to wait until further notice, as Jack Doohan will get back in his car as Pierre Gasly's teammate... despite his physical issues.

Jack Doohan's problems after his brutal accident in Japan

Franco Colapinto's rise with Alpine was dependent on the brutal accident his teammate Jack Doohan suffered during the tests that took place last Friday before the Japanese Grand Prix. Although he was able to race on Sunday, he needed assistance from his teammates to get out of his car, and in fact, he was seen showing significant signs of pain.

"On Friday, I was a little sore. On Saturday, I felt worse, and on Sunday, even worse. I would say I felt pain from the start of the race, not necessarily toward the end, but the adrenaline certainly helped me. I think it’s natural with the strain and position. So, a couple of days of rest, Monday, Tuesday, and obviously yesterday, were very necessary," Jack Doohan confessed in a press conference yesterday regarding the problems he faced last weekend in Japan.

Colapinto must be ready

Throughout this week, rumors have circulated that Franco Colapinto, who continues to impress Alpine engineers, could get the opportunity he’s been waiting for to team up with Pierre Gasly. However, Jack Doohan has confessed, “I’m already at 100%, completely recovered. I’m really looking forward to having a clean weekend and getting everything in order.”

Thus, within Alpine, it continues to be hinted that, unless something unexpected happens at the last minute, the plan is for Jack Doohan to race in the Bahrain Grand Prix. However, both during Friday’s practice and Saturday’s qualifying, all eyes will be on him, examining every move. In case of the slightest doubt, Franco Colapinto must be ready to take his place.