Ralf Schumacher, uncle of Mick Schumacher, has accused Alpine of showing nepotism in their selection for the 2025 F1 line-up, with reserve driver Jack Doohan being chosen over his nephew. Despite being considered a top contender for the seat, Schumacher believes that his nephew was hindered during the shootout due to Doohan being given more favorable conditions. This decision came after Carlos Sainz turned down Alpine's advances, leaving the seat open for Doohan, who was already being groomed by the team through his involvement with their World Endurance Championship side.
Alpine F1 Accused of Nepotism in Driver Selection
Tension is brewing within the Alpine F1 camp after former driver Ralf Schumacher, uncle of Mick Schumacher, leveled accusations of nepotism against the team. The allegations stem from Alpine's decision to choose reserve driver Jack Doohan over Mick Schumacher for the 2025 Formula 1 line-up.
Background
Mick Schumacher, the son of seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher, has been a contender for the Alpine seat since Fernando Alonso left the team at the end of the 2022 season. Schumacher, 24, spent two seasons with Haas in F1 but failed to impress, scoring just 12 points.
Jack Doohan, 21, has been part of Alpine's young driver program since 2021. He has been competing in the Formula 2 Championship, where he finished third in 2022. Doohan also had experience in Alpine's World Endurance Championship side.
Ralf Schumacher's Accusations
Ralf Schumacher claims that Alpine gave Doohan more favorable conditions during the driver shootout that determined the 2025 line-up. He alleges that Doohan was allowed to test on a dry track, while Mick Schumacher was forced to do his evaluation on a wet surface.
"It's obvious that Alpine wanted Doohan in the car," Schumacher told a German publication. "Mick was hindered by the unfair conditions. It's a shame because Mick is a talented driver, and he deserves a seat in F1."
Alpine's Response
Alpine has vehemently denied the allegations of nepotism. Team principal Otmar Szafnauer stated that the driver selection process was "fair and transparent" and that Doohan earned the seat based on his performance.
"We gave both drivers equal opportunities to prove themselves during the shootout," Szafnauer said. "Jack Doohan was simply the better driver on the day."
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