Hirakawa joins Alpine as F1 test and reserve driver

Le Mans 24 Hours winner Ryo Hirakawa has joined alpineFormula 1 team as its test and reserve driver.

have been a part of this before mclarendriver development programme, Hirakawa will move to Alpine in 2025 and take on an expanded role with the Renault Group brand.

He will participate in Alpine’s TCP (testing previous cars) program and support the development of the car with an active role in the team’s simulator.

The 30-year-old will also get a chance to practice at his home event, the Japanese Grand Prix in April.

“It is an honor to join the BWT Alpine Formula One Team as a test and reserve driver for the 2025 season,” said Hirakawa.

“As always, the opportunity to get track time in Formula 1 machinery is the pinnacle for race drivers and I am looking forward to driving in Free Practice 1 in front of my home crowd at the Japanese Grand Prix as well as working with the team who have done previous testing. Excited for. Cars.

“This is a great opportunity to work with such a dedicated team that utilizes the extensive experience of its driver pool and I look forward to playing a part in making 2025 a positive year.”

Hirakawa has been associated with Toyota for a long time and continues to race for the Japanese brand in the Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship, where he is a two-time champion.

Toyota recently signed a technology partnership Haas F1 TeamAnd Hirakawa also got the chance to sample its 2024 car at the Abu Dhabi young driver test in December, while maintaining his relationship with McLaren.

He now joins Alpine’s reserve driver roster which also includes Formula 2 race winner Paul Aron.

“It is great to bring Rio to the team for 2025 and appoint him to take over driving duties for FP1 in Japan in front of his home crowd,” said Alpine Team Principal Oliver Oakes.

“His addition brings a diverse range of racing experience to our current roster and expands the pool of talent available to call upon throughout the season.

“His role will be vital in providing support to the team in various areas of development through our TPC program and simulator work, and we look forward to welcoming him to the team as we move forward with preparations for the new season. “

Alpine will have an updated driver line-up with rookie in 2025 jack doohan The move from Formula 2 to partner pierre gaslyDoohan will replace esteban oconWho will run for Haas this year.