Jack Doohan sends defiant 'last race' message in face of intense F1 pressure

Jack Doohan insists he will "enjoy" every grand prix he races this season as if it is his last in F1.

The embattled Alpine driver has endured near-constant speculation over his future during the winter break after the French team signed a quadrant of test and reserve drivers, headlined by prising Franco Colapinto away from Williams on a multi-year deal.

Team Enstone had to pay a significant sum to free the Argentine from his contract at the Grove-based squad and his arrival has further heaped pressure on Doohan - and fed into the persistent but unfounded rumour the 22-year-old has only a matter of rounds to prove himself to Flavio Briatore and team principal Oliver Oakes.

Speaking to media including RacingNews365 ahead of his home grand prix in Melbourne, Doohan indirectly debunked that myth.

"Great question," the Australian joked to a chorus of laughter when asked how he feels about the extra pressure and the prospect of the current trip to Albert Park being his only home race in F1.

"To be honest... I haven't been thinking about any of that because, as you all know, there’s no point thinking about rumours or commenting on them.

"But I have a contract for at least this year, if not more. So, I look forward to many home grands prix."

Doohan: 'All four reserves want my seat'

Despite Alpine stacking its bench with alternatives, Doohan maintains the four drivers behind him and team-mate Pierre Gasly do not move the needle.

He is adamant that he must perform - and enjoy himself - each and every time he gets into the car, something that would be the case without the presence of Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa and Kush Maini as well.

"And the uncertainties? You don't bother worrying about them," Doohan explained. "I think I have to perform each and every time I'm in the car. I have one guy chasing my seat, but we actually have four [reserve and test drivers] now, if you didn't realise.

"We have four reserves, you have all four of them, not just Franco, probably wants my seat and if not, Pierre’s as well.

"And I wanted their [Gasly and Esteban Ocon's] seats while I was reserve driver the last two years. So I'm going to enjoy every race as if it's my last, because I want to enjoy each and every moment I'm in the car.

"But, yeah, to be honest, not much more to add on that."