Alpine Signs Sergio Perez in Shocking Mid-Season Switch due to Doohan Re…read more
In a stunning twist that has shaken up the Formula 1 paddock, Alpine F1 Team has confirmed the signing of veteran driver Sergio Perez for the remainder of the 2025 season. The experienced Mexican racer will take over the race seat from Jack Doohan effective immediately, with his first appearance for Alpine set for the Canadian Grand Prix.
This unexpected move ends weeks of speculation and fan debate surrounding the future of Alpine’s driver lineup. The decision to bring in Perez comes amid increasing pressure on the team to turn around a difficult season in which they’ve struggled to keep pace with their midfield rivals.
Perez, affectionately known as “Checo,” had been without a seat after parting ways with Red Bull Racing at the conclusion of the 2024 season. Despite his proven track record—including multiple Grand Prix victories and podium finishes—Perez had been on the sidelines for the first part of 2025. His signing marks a dramatic return to the grid, and his wealth of experience is seen as a major asset for Alpine, who are aiming to improve their performance in both the drivers’ and constructors’ standings.
Alpine team principal Bruno Famin addressed the shakeup in an official statement, offering gratitude to both drivers involved. “We’re incredibly thankful to Jack Doohan for his dedication and contributions during the first half of the season,” said Famin. “However, we believe that adding someone of Checo’s caliber and experience gives us a stronger foundation to pursue our goals for the rest of the year. His ability to extract performance from the car and his race intelligence will be vital as we aim to climb up the standings.”
Jack Doohan, who has risen through Alpine’s driver academy and made his full-time F1 debut with the team this season, will not be departing the organization entirely. Instead, he will return to his role as a reserve and development driver. Doohan expressed professionalism and maturity in his response to the news, saying, “While I’m obviously disappointed not to continue racing, I’m grateful for the experience and everything I’ve learned so far. I wish Checo and the team the best and will keep working behind the scenes to support the team and improve my own skills.”
Doohan’s brief tenure as a race driver showed promise, though it has also been marred by inconsistency and a car that has often lacked pace. The team’s leadership is now betting that Perez, with over a decade of Formula 1 experience, can help elevate the car’s potential and provide valuable feedback for development.
Perez’s arrival is expected to bring not just driving talent but also strategic insight, particularly during qualifying and race conditions where Alpine has faltered this year. His expertise in tire management, race starts, and in-race decision-making could be pivotal as the team looks to salvage a challenging season.
The announcement has been met with a mix of excitement and curiosity from the F1 community. While many fans are thrilled to see Perez return to active competition, others are eager to see how quickly he can adapt to Alpine’s machinery and whether his presence will yield immediate results.
All eyes will be on the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix, where Perez will make his debut in blue and pink. The race will not only mark his return to the sport but also serve as a litmus test for Alpine’s mid-season gamble. For now, the team is hopeful that the addition of a seasoned hand behind the wheel could be the spark needed to reignite their 2025 campaign.
