Rising Formula 1 star Jack Doohan opens up about terrifying online abuse and threats to his family while racing for Alpine in the United States

Jack Doohan, the rising Formula 1 star and son of MotoGP legend Mick Doohan, has shared the chilling experience of receiving graphic death threats last year.

The threats were so severe that he needed armed protection while attending races, including the Miami Grand Prix in May 2025.

Speaking candidly on Netflix’s Drive to Survive, Doohan recounted the dark period during his final races for Alpine before being replaced by Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto.

“I got serious death threats for this [Miami] Grand Prix, saying they’re going to kill me here if I’m not out of the car,” he said.

He described receiving multiple emails warning, “if I am still in the car by Miami, all my limbs will be cut off.”

Online Abuse Escalates After Alpine Shake-Up

The attacks didn’t stop online.

Following the rise of Colapinto within Alpine, Doohan became the target of an aggressive trolling campaign.

The abuse was particularly intense from social media users believed to be from Argentina, fueled by a misleading parody post from the Instagram account formulafakers.

The fake post, showing Colapinto’s crashed Alpine car with a caption mocking the Argentine driver and falsely attributed to Mick Doohan, went viral.

Several Argentine media outlets mistakenly reported it as genuine, which triggered a torrent of online abuse directed at Jack and his family.

Armed Security Needed at Miami Grand Prix

The threats reached a level where Doohan’s personal safety was seriously at risk.

He revealed that during the Miami Grand Prix, he was surrounded by three armed men for protection.

“I was there with my fg girlfriend and my trainer, and I’ve got three fg armed men around me. I had to call my police escort to come and get it under control,” he admitted.

This intense pressure came after a challenging 2025 season.

Doohan had deputized for Esteban Ocon at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2024, but the start of the 2025 season saw him struggle, failing to score points in the first six races and crashing in his home Australian Grand Prix under tricky conditions.

Mistakes in Japan’s Suzuka Grand Prix further compounded the difficulties, particularly a risky move at the first corner with DRS activated.

Alpine’s Decision and Career Setback

Following the turbulence, Alpine replaced Doohan with Colapinto ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, demoting him to a reserve role before both parties agreed to part ways in January 2026.

Doohan described this period as disheartening: “I wasn’t able to enjoy being a Formula 1 driver, something I dreamt of for so long. So yeah, it’s pretty s***.”

A Fresh Start With Haas

Despite the setbacks, Doohan has found a new opportunity with Haas for the 2026 season as a reserve driver.

He expressed gratitude for the chance to continue his Formula 1 journey.

“I would like to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to grow and take on the great challenge of 2026 together. I’m eager to begin working with the team and collaborating on a successful season,” he said.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed Doohan, praising his experience and drive.

“The dedication required to remain sharp and prepared to race while getting to know how the team works and so on, it’s challenging for any driver – especially one who’s obviously still very keen to race again at this level,” Komatsu said.

What’s Next?

For Doohan, the future is about reclaiming his confidence and focus on the track.

The 2026 season presents a chance to rebuild his career, proving his talent in a less pressurized environment while preparing for potential full-time racing opportunities.

Fans will be watching closely to see if he can translate his raw potential into results and avoid the controversies and threats that marred his time at Alpine.

Summary

Jack Doohan, son of MotoGP champion Mick Doohan, endured graphic death threats during a difficult spell with Alpine, requiring armed protection and police escorts.

The abuse was exacerbated by a viral fake social media post and online trolling, leaving him emotionally strained and struggling on track.

After a challenging 2025 season and being replaced by Franco Colapinto, Doohan has joined Haas as a reserve driver for 2026, seeking a fresh start and a chance to rebuild his Formula 1 career.