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Doohans on track for World Champs milestone

Alpine F1 Team Reserve Driver Jack Doohan and his father Mick Doohan at the 2023 Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park, Melbourne. Image: SUPPLIED

By Edwina Williams

A FATHER-son motorsporting duo are teaming up for a special on-track anniversary celebration at this month’s Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, Melbourne.

Australian motorbike racer, Mick Doohan, will mark 30 years since his first of five 500cc Motorcycling World Championship titles, alongside his BWT Alpine reserve Formula One driver son, Jack Doohan.

They will respectively steer a production MotoGP Honda RCV213, and a V10-powered 2000 Benetton B200 F1 car which was Alpine’s Formula 1 season entrant at the arrival of the 21st century.

“Firstly, thanks to the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and to Formula 1 for this amazing opportunity,” Mick said. “Any time I can jump on a bike at these types of events, it’s always a real pleasure.

“It marks 30 years since my first world title back in 1994. Time does go by so quickly, as now, I’m going to be on track with my son, which will be a truly special moment for both of us.

“I continue to support Jack and support his career endeavours working towards the goal of racing in Formula 1. We’re both very much excited to be putting on a show in front of the home fans in Melbourne over the Grand Prix weekend at Albert Park.”

Doohan senior won the 500cc Motorcycling World Championship in 1994 riding a Honda NSR500, and backed it up with four more consecutive wins in the category.

The young Doohan found a pathway to reserve F1 driving having placed third in the FIA Formula 2 championship last year.

Alpine F1 Team Reserve Driver Jack Doohan. Images: SUPPLIED

Alpine F1 Team Reserve Driver Jack Doohan. Images: SUPPLIED

Jack is involved in F1 testing privately, and at the Alpine simulator east of Enstone in England.

“I’m so excited to be on track with my dad in Albert Park during the Australian Grand Prix weekend,” he said.

“It’s actually the first time we have shared a track together with me in a car and him on a bike, so that will be an incredibly special moment.

“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate his success in front of the Australian fans, and for me, it’s a unique opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car around such an iconic track.

“Hopefully next year it will be the real thing! That’s my target and I’m working hard to achieving my ultimate dream.”

The Doohan Demonstration Laps at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, Melbourne.

Saturday 23 March, AEST: 9:55am to 10:20am, 3:15pm to 3:30pm.
Sunday 24 March, AEST: 1:35pm to 1:50pm.

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