Alpine field all-Australian line-up in Qatar test

Alpine will give F2 and academy driver Jack Doohan his first taste of F1 machinery as part of a test in Qatar this weekend.

The Australian, who is the son of motorcycle racing legend Mick Doohan, joined Alpine's academy set-up at the start of the year ahead of his maiden year in F2.

Doohan will follow on from the work completed by countryman and Alpine reserve driver Oscar Piastri, who drove last year's A521 on Wednesday and Thursday in Doha.

"I’m super excited to drive a Formula 1 car for the first time," said Doohan.

"This is a moment that I’ve been building up to ever since I started racing karts, and I know these opportunities are extremely privileged.

"I’m very grateful to Alpine for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to giving it my best on the test day.

"I’ve watched behind the scenes at some private tests before and I’ve completed a lot of preparation in the loop simulator at Enstone, so I’m definitely feeling ready for this challenge.

"I’ll build myself up on the day, enjoy it at the same time and hopefully learn as much as possible alongside the team.”

Alpine academy director Julien Rouse added: "We’re very pleased to give Jack his first run in a Formula 1 car.

"Since he’s joined the programme at the start of the year, we’ve seen Jack develop and grow very quickly. He’s spent a bit of time at Enstone to prepare and he’s certainly demonstrating promising potential."

Piastri staying "match fit" with tests

Piastri continued his road to F1 during his two days behind the wheel, with the reigning F2 champion expected to be promoted to the sport next year.

“It’s been a productive two days of testing in Qatar where I’ve continued getting to grips with the A521 Formula 1 car," said Piastri.

"It was very hot across both days but that’s good for physical preparation. The track has largely been unused recently, so there were varying levels of grip and the conditions were quite dusty and windy throughout.

"It was a challenge at times, but important for me to learn about driving in different conditions. I’m looking forward to joining the F1 Team again in Barcelona and Monaco before my next private test day in June.”

Rouse added: "This is his second private test of the year as part of his intense testing programme in the 2021-spec Formula 1 car.

"It’s important for Oscar to stay match fit and up to speed in this type of machinery and we’re pleased to continue supporting Oscar on his pathway. There’s more to come for him throughout the year.”

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