How Lewis Hamilton’s shock defection could lead to Australian motorcycling legend Mick Doohan’s son becoming the third Aussie on the F1 grid as early as next season
- Jack Doohan appears to be closing in on an F1 debut
- Is the son of Australian motorcycle legend Mick Doohan
- Australians Oscar Piastri and Daniel Ricciardo fly the F1 flag
Lewis Hamilton’s surprising move to Ferrari could see Jack Doohan – the son of Australian motoring legend Mick Doohan – make his Formula 1 debut next season alongside compatriots Oscar Piastri and Daniel Ricciardo.
Mercedes has a high-profile vacancy with Hamilton, 39, confirming that he is Ferrari on the way to 2025.
Ominously for the Silver Arrows, there are currently no notable choices to join George Russell.
Young man Esteban Ocon has raised his hand to join Mercedes, where he was a junior driver, but also stated that he isentirely dedicated to Alpine.’
The sporting musical chairs allowed 21-year-old Doohan – currently reserve driver for the Alpine F1 Team – to appear on the grid sooner than many expected.
Lewis Hamilton’s surprise move to Ferrari could see Jack Doohan, the son of Australian motoring legend Mick Doohan, make his Formula 1 debut next season
Hamilton’s shock move ended his 13-year stay at Mercedes, where he won six world titles
Doohan also won many admirers after finishing fourth in the F2 Championship last season.
“I believe he will land a position sometime next year, but right now there is still some work to be done, so he cannot give up the dream or goal of reaching that seat. ,” Doohan Snr said Nine news.
“I believe he’s ready, and he believes he’s ready, and I think the team believes he’s ready… the only thing is there are no seats.”
Outside of Alpine, Doohan could find a potential opening or two.
Although a move to Mercedes and Ferrari won’t happen, it is possible that Aston Martin and Sauber could come calling.
Haas are another option, but given their problems this season they may not turn to Doohan.
Meanwhile, compatriot Oscar Piastri showed his class for McLaren in an impressive F1 debut season, finishing 9th.
In September, the rising star signed a contract extension until 2026, while Daniel Ricciardo drove for AlphaTauri – owned by Red Bull – in July, replacing Nyck de Vries.
The Perth-born cult hero then made enough of an impression to sign for a new season alongside Japan’s Yuki Tsunoda.
Bahrain will host the first race of the 2024 F1 season on March 3.