Full Breakdown
Jack Doohan Transitions to Endurance Racing with Nielsen Racing
4/1/2026, 12:12:13 PM
Overview of Doohan's Move to Sports Car Racing
Jack Doohan, a former Formula 1 driver, is set to make his sports car racing debut in the 2026 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) with Nielsen Racing. The 23-year-old Australian will drive the team's #24 ORECA 07 – Gibson in the LMP2 category, sharing the vehicle with Roy Nissany and rookie Edward Pearson. This transition follows a challenging period in Formula 1, where Doohan was dropped by the Alpine F1 Team after just six races in the 2025 season.
Background on Doohan's Career
Doohan's rise through the junior ranks culminated in a brief stint in Formula 1, where he faced difficulties leading to his departure from Alpine. Despite this setback, he has been named the reserve driver for the Haas F1 Team in 2026, allowing him to maintain a presence in the F1 circuit while exploring new opportunities in endurance racing.
Key Details of the ELMS Season
The 2026 ELMS season will commence at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain, from April 10 to 12. Doohan's entry into the series marks a significant shift in his racing career, as he adapts to the demands of endurance racing, which differs markedly from single-seater competitions. He expressed enthusiasm about the new challenge, stating, “I’m really excited to be back racing in 2026 and to be joining Nielsen Racing for my first season in LMP2.”
Doohan's Experience and Expectations
In preparation for the season, Doohan has acknowledged the need for extensive seat time to acclimatize to the ORECA 07. He noted the differences in driving style, including the presence of a roof and obstructions in view, which are not typical in single-seater racing. Despite having limited mileage in the car, he described his initial experience as positive, emphasizing the potential for significant learning and growth: “It will be a massive experience gain for wherever my career goes past here.”
Official Statements & Responses
Nielsen Racing has confirmed the all-new lineup for their #24 entry, which aims to improve upon last season's fifth-place finish in the LMP2 teams’ championship. Doohan's teammates, Nissany and Pearson, bring a mix of experience and enthusiasm to the team, which is expected to foster strong chemistry and competitive results throughout the season.
Criticism & Opposition
While Doohan's transition has been met with excitement, some critics have pointed out the challenges he may face in adapting to endurance racing after a tumultuous F1 career. The pressure to perform in a new environment could be significant, especially given the high expectations associated with his previous single-seater success.
What's Next for Doohan
As the ELMS season approaches, Doohan and his teammates will focus on maximizing their preparation and performance in the upcoming races. With only a few LMP2 seats remaining to be filled, the anticipation builds for the start of the season in Barcelona, where Doohan will aim to establish himself in the world of endurance racing.
