Alpine newcomer Jack Doohan looks on the bright side after difficult Chinese Grand Prix

Jack Doohan departed the Chinese Grand Prix in higher spirits than his last event, even if he was hit with a post-race penalty. The Alpine newcomer was involved in an intense on-track battle with Racing Bulls' Isack Hadjar, demonstrating his determination as he keeps adjusting to Formula 1. While Doohan ultimately crossed the line out of the points, the experience was priceless as Alpine struggles to get its form going in the 2025 season.Having crashed out on the first lap in Melbourne, Jack Doohan was keen to get a full race under his belt in Shanghai. Starting at the back of the grid, he had a tough task in front of him, made all the more challenging when Alpine took the bold decision to pit early, leaving him on the hard compound tires for 45 laps. As the race went on, Doohan was in a real battle with Isack Hadjar, holding his ground from a car that had demonstrated more pace throughout the weekend. But an over-aggressive moment saw Doohan push Hadjar wide, which resulted in a 10-second time penalty that lost him down the field after the race. Despite the disappointment, Doohan was positive about his performance, chuckling, “I’m happy to get 56 laps more than I did in Oz; that’s for sure.” Looking back at his race, he continued, “Tough race, elbows out and, in the end, 14th on track from where we were wasn’t too bad. We kept that [Racing Bulls] car behind for 20-odd laps, a car that’s been much quicker than us all weekend, a strong Q3 running car, so I think we have to be proud of that.”Despite being frustrated by the penalty, Doohan recognized that he needed to replay the incident so he wouldn't lose unwanted positions in the future.Also Read: Who is Jack Doohan? Know all about the Alpine driver competing on his homeground at Australian Grand PrixWith Alpine still yet to open their account, the Japanese triple-header represents a crucial chance to get their season on track. The squad will hope for an improved performance there. As the midfield struggle becomes more intense, each win will be crucial. Can Alpine end their barren run and rediscover the form they so badly require?