Jack Doohan crashes twice in Super Formula test amid Haas F1 links

Jack Doohan's bid to rebuild his career hit a snag during Super Formula testing, with the former Alpine F1 driver crashing on consecutive days at Suzuka's challenging Degner 2 corner. The incidents come as the Australian is linked to a potential dual role in 2026, combining a Haas F1 reserve position with a racing seat in the competitive Japanese series.

Why it matters:

For a driver seeking to prove his worth after a brief and unspectacular F1 stint, consistent crashes during testing are far from ideal. Doohan's performance is under intense scrutiny as he attempts to secure a future that bridges a top-level racing series and a potential return to the Formula 1 grid.

The details:

• Doohan was driving for the Toyota-powered Kondo Racing team during a three-day test at the iconic Suzuka circuit.
• His Tuesday session ended with a rear-impact crash at Degner 2, followed by a nose-first crash at the same corner on Wednesday. He walked away unharmed from both incidents.
• This adds to a crash-filled year at Suzuka for Doohan, who famously binned his Alpine during FP2 at the Japanese Grand Prix in April after failing to close his DRS into Turn 1.
• Despite testing with Kondo Racing, which finished seventh in last year's championship, Doohan is not yet signed for the 2026 Super Formula season.
• Toyota's global motorsport director, Masaya Kaji, acknowledged Doohan is "a good driver" but stated nothing is concrete regarding his future.

Between the lines:

The repeated mistakes at a demanding circuit like Suzuka raise questions about Doohan's adaptation to new machinery and his current form. While testing is the time to find limits, back-to-back crashes can be a red flag for teams evaluating a driver's consistency and feedback potential.

What's next:

Doohan's immediate future hinges on finalizing deals for both a Super Formula seat and the rumored Haas F1 reserve role.

• A move to Super Formula is seen as a strategic path to stay race-sharp and visible, with the hope of an F1 return in 2027.
• Haas has Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman contracted for 2026, both with deals ending after the season, potentially opening a seat for 2027.
• Crucially, PlanetF1.com reports no deal is yet done with either Haas or a Super Formula team, and Doohan remains under contract with Alpine until the end of 2026.