Haas signs Doohan as reserve driver for 2026

Jack Doohan has signed with Haas as a reserve driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season, following his departure from Alpine.

The Australian started last year racing for Alpine, but was replaced by Franco Colapinto after just six rounds of the season and spent the rest of the year carrying out reserve duties. Alpine and Doohan then reached a mutual agreement to part ways ahead of this season, with the 23-year-old switching to Haas where he joins Ryo Hirakawa as a back-up to Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman.

"'I’m thrilled to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team,” Doohan said. “It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula 1 career. I would like to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to grow and take on the great challenge of 2026 together. I’m eager to begin working with the team and collaborating on a successful season.’’

RACER understands Doohan explored a move to Super Formula alongside the Haas role, but opted against the race seats available for the 2026 season. Hirakawa already has a racing program in place for the coming year through Toyota – now the title sponsor of Haas – in the World Endurance Championship, necessitating additional reserve options for Haas.

“I’m personally very excited to have Jack join us on the team given the strength of his racing resume and of course his experience in being a reserve driver in Formula 1,” Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu said.

“The dedication required to remain sharp and prepared to race while getting to know how the team works and so on, it’s challenging for any driver – especially one who’s obviously still very keen to race again at this level. I’ve enjoyed getting to know Jack and we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team and benefiting from his contributions.”

The move for Doohan follows a similar switch for Hirakawa, with the 31-year-old Japanese driver having signed with Alpine at the start of 2025 but then moving to Haas as a reserve early in the year.