The scandal in Imala: Mick Doohan crosses the line and unleashes the controversy against Franco Colapinto and Alpine
Formula 1 is a high speed world, intense emotions and, sometimes, controversies that transcend the track. In the recent Grand Prix of Emilia-Romaña, played in the iconic Icola circuit, an extra-sports storm has shaken the paddock. The unexpected protagonist: Mick Doohan, father of the pilot Jack Doohan, who with his statements and actions has generated a wave of criticism for missing the respect of the young Argentine talent Franco Colapinto and the Alpine team. This episode, which has ignited social networks, deserves a deep analysis to understand its implications and the impact on the community of motoring.
THE CONTEXT: COLAPINTO replaces Doohan in Alpine
Franco Colapinto, the promising 21 -year -old Argentine pilot, returned to Formula 1 in Isola as head of Alpine, occupying the seat that until then belonged to Jack Doohan. The decision, taken after the discreet results of the Australian in the first races of the 2025 season, did not surprise many in the Paddock. Colapinto, who had already shone in 2024 with Williams, adding points in Baku and Austin, was seen as a fresh bet and backed by the influential Flavio Briatore, Alpine advisor. However, this transition has not been peaceful.
Jack Doohan, formed at the Alpine Academy, failed to consolidate in the highest category. His performances, marked by errors such as the accident in Japan or abandonment in Miami, contrasted with the potential of Colapinto, who demonstrated speed and maturity in his nine large prior awards. Alpine’s decision, although logical from Deportivo, unleashed tensions, especially in the environment of the Australian pilot.
Mick Doohan: from criticism of personal attack
Mick Doohan, legend of motorcycling and father of Jack, did not hide his frustration at the replacement of his son. In an interview with the Spanish media Dazn before the classification in Isola, the former 500cc champion launched hard words against Alpine: “It is disappointing how events have been developed. Jack has done it well, but it seems that Alpine is a team of payment pilots.” This insinuation, which points to the Argentine sponsors of Colapinto, such as YPF and Mercado Libre, not only questions Alpine’s sports decision, but also doubts the merit of the young Argentine.
But the real scandal came after the collapint accident in the Icola classification. The Argentine, in his debut with Alpine, lost control of his car in the Chicana prior to Tamburello, a curve loaded with symbolism by the tragedy of Ayrton Senna in 1994. Although it came out unharmed, the incident marked a complicated moment for Franco. In that context, Mick Doohan published on Instagram a story with the image of the destroyed self, accompanied by the message “very impressive” and emojis of laughs. Although he quickly eliminated the publication, the screenshots went viral, unleashing the outrage of fans, especially in Argentina.
The reaction of the “sportmaniamatic” and the defense of Colapinto
The community of motor racing, known for its passion, soon responded. In Argentina, the followers of Colapinto, self -denominated “sportmaniamatic”, flooded social networks with messages of support to the pilot and criticism of Mick Doohan. “It is unacceptable that a figure like Doohan lacks respect to a young man who is demonstrating his talent,” wrote an user in X. Others pointed out the irony that Mick, whose son also reached F1 with economic support, criticizes the sponsorship system.
Colapinto, faithful to his serene style, avoided feeding the controversy. In statements prior to the Grand Prix, he expressed his enthusiasm to compete in Icola, a circuit that knows well after his victories in Formula 2 and 3: “I am ready and well prepared. I want to support the team and demonstrate what I can do.” His professional approach contrasts with the attitudes of Mick Doohan, whose behavior has been qualified as little sports by analysts and fans.
Alpine in the eye of the hurricane
The French team, which is going through a complicated season with only seven points in the Construction Championship, also remained in an awkward position. Mick Doohan’s words not only attack Colapinto, but question Alpine’s management, a team that seeks to recover his place on the grill under the direction of BriTore. The elimination of Doohan’s publication suggests an attempt to control damage, but the episode has already left a brand.
A call to sportsmanship
Formula 1 is more than speed; It is a talent showcase, effort and respect. Mick Doohan’s attitude, although motivated by the love of a father, crosses a line that should not be transferred in a sport where competition must be loyal. Franco Colapinto, with his talent and humility, has the support of a passionate hobby and the potential to shine in Alpine. This incident, far from obscuring him, has reinforced his image as a pilot who faces challenges on and off the track with maturity.
While the F1 circus prepares for Monaco, Icola’s controversy continues to resonate. What do you think of Mick Doohan’s actions? Do you think Colapinto will respond with results on the track? Share your opinion and join the debate!
