Ferrari has intensified its long-term driver planning for the FIA World Endurance Championship, making contact with emerging talent Jack Doohan regarding a potential full-time seat for the 2026 season. However, the Australian driver ultimately opted against joining the Maranello-based squad, choosing instead to pursue a different career path as he continues to keep his Formula 1 ambitions alive.
The Italian manufacturer, fresh from a period of sustained dominance in endurance racing, has been actively evaluating its future line-up as it looks to maintain its competitive edge in the Hypercar category. Following multiple headline victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and continued success in the World Endurance Championship, Ferrari remains committed to strengthening its driver roster with a blend of experience and promising young talent.
Ferrari explores future options despite stable Hypercar line-up
Although Ferrari currently fields a strong and consistent trio of 499P Hypercars, the team has been proactively scouting potential additions for upcoming seasons. As part of this forward-thinking strategy, Jack Doohan emerged as a candidate for a long-term role within the endurance racing programme.
According to reports in the Italian media, discussions were initiated with Jack Doohan regarding a full-time WEC seat starting in 2026. The approach highlights Ferrari’s intent to secure drivers capable of contributing to its endurance racing legacy while also ensuring continuity in performance at the highest level.
Despite the appeal of joining one of motorsport’s most iconic brands, Jack Doohan decided against accepting the offer. It is understood that he has chosen to focus on other racing opportunities, particularly within the European Le Mans Series, where he is set to compete with Nielsen Racing. His immediate objective is to build momentum in endurance racing while keeping alternative pathways open for the future.
Jack Doohan keeps Formula 1 ambitions alive
Jack Doohan’s decision reflects a broader strategic focus on maintaining flexibility in his career. After stepping away from a race seat with Alpine during the previous season, he transitioned into a reserve driver role with Haas, keeping himself closely connected to the Formula 1 paddock.
The Australian driver’s Formula 1 journey includes a brief stint competing in seven Grands Prix between 2024 and 2025. His time on the grid came to an end after he was replaced by Franco Colapinto, prompting a period of reassessment regarding his long-term career direction. While he returned to a reserve role shortly afterward, his departure from Alpine marked a turning point in his professional trajectory.
Earlier in his career, Jack Doohan also explored opportunities outside Europe, including a potential move to Japan’s Super Formula championship. However, those plans were ultimately abandoned following a challenging testing phase with Kondo Racing at Suzuka, where a series of similar on-track incidents disrupted his preparations and led to a change in direction.
Despite these setbacks, Jack Doohan continues to position himself as a versatile driver capable of competing across multiple disciplines. His current focus on endurance racing is seen as a strategic step that could enhance his profile while preserving the possibility of a return to Formula 1 in the coming years, potentially as early as 2027.
Ferrari maintains focus on endurance dominance
From Ferrari’s perspective, the decision by Jack Doohan does not significantly alter its immediate plans, as the team remains well-equipped with a competitive driver line-up in the Hypercar category. The Italian squad has secured victories in the last three editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the 499P, reinforcing its status as a dominant force in endurance racing.
Nevertheless, Ferrari’s outreach to Jack Doohan underlines its commitment to long-term planning and talent acquisition. By engaging with drivers who have experience in both Formula 1 and endurance racing environments, the team aims to ensure it remains competitive as the WEC landscape continues to evolve.
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