Here is the thing about Formula 1: a single test can change the entire trajectory of a driver's career. As Speedcafe reports, Jack Doohan recently climbed back into an F1 cockpit, taking part in a Testing of Previous Cars program with Haas at a Spanish circuit.
It was a massive moment for the Australian, marking his first running in a grand prix car since his time with Alpine wrapped up following the 2025 Miami Grand Prix. He joined Haas as a test and reserve driver ahead of the 2026 season, and this outing gave him a vital chance to sample the machinery while speculation swirls over who will sit alongside Oliver Bearman for 2027. Doohan shared the track with Toyota-backed Ryo Hirakawa and the 2024 Super Formula champion Sho Tsuboi.
If it’s within tenths for instance – or very, very close – then the affiliation package does come into play for sure,
Reacting to the test on social media, Doohan called it an "Incredible feeling to be back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car," while also thanking the Haas team for the opportunity.
Haas is clearly casting a wide net for the future. While Bearman is expected to remain for a third season, Esteban Ocon’s future remains uncertain, especially with Ocon having scored only three of the team's 21 points this season. Before Doohan's Jerez outing, Haas evaluated Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, McLaren reserve Leonardo Fornaroli, and Hirakawa in a separate test at Portimao, where Camara reportedly made a strong impression.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu made it crystal clear that raw speed will dictate their final choice. "I’ve always said we take drivers by performance, so performance comes absolutely first," Komatsu said. He insisted they would never take someone who is three tenths slower simply because of manufacturer ties or extra funding, though he did admit that affiliations could break a tie if lap times are practically identical. "If it’s within tenths for instance – or very, very close – then the affiliation package does come into play for sure," he noted, adding that having two Ferrari-affiliated drivers wouldn't bother him if they are fast enough.
A decision won't be dropping immediately, with Komatsu noting a timeline is not set for next week, leaving Doohan and the other hopefuls plenty of time to state their case. Formula 1 returns with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from September 24-26.
