F1 News Today: Vettel Hints at Possible Return as Alpine Faces Turmoil with Doohan’s Replacement
The Formula 1 world is abuzz with speculation as four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel considers a potential return to the sport. Vettel, who retired in 2022, has expressed that a comeback could be “appealing and interesting,” contingent on the right opportunity. He has been in discussions with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, though both parties have clarified that these talks are not directly about filling the seat vacated by Lewis Hamilton’s impending move to Ferrari in 2025. Hamilton himself has endorsed the idea, describing Vettel as an “amazing option” for Mercedes. (Formula 1® – The Official F1® Website, Sky Sports, Sky Sports)
Meanwhile, Alpine F1 Team is undergoing significant changes. After a challenging start to the 2025 season, rookie driver Jack Doohan has been replaced by Argentine driver Franco Colapinto for the next five races. Doohan’s tenure was marred by underperformance and off-track issues, including social media abuse and personal threats that necessitated 24-hour security at events like the Miami Grand Prix. The team’s struggles have been compounded by the resignation of team principal Oliver Oakes, with Flavio Briatore stepping in as his replacement. (talkSPORT, news)
Colapinto, who previously impressed during a stint with Williams, brings strong commercial backing and local support from Argentina. His promotion is seen as part of Alpine’s strategy to evaluate driver options ahead of the 2026 season, when the team will switch to Mercedes engines. (The Times, The Australian)
As the F1 landscape continues to evolve, the potential return of seasoned drivers like Vettel and the emergence of new talents like Colapinto underscore the dynamic nature of the sport.(Cadena SER)
