Ryo Hirakawa joins Alpine as F1 test and reserve driver

Le Mans 24 Hours winner Ryo Hirakawa has joined Alpine’s Formula 1 team as its test and reserve driver.

Having previously been a part of McLaren’s driver development programme, Hirakawa will switch to Alpine in 2025 and take on an expanded role with the Renault Group brand.

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

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

“It is an honour to be joining BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team as a Test and Reserve Driver for the 2025 season,” said Hirakawa.

“As always, the opportunity of track time in Formula One machinery is the pinnacle for race drivers and I am excited to drive in Free Practice 1 in front of my home crowd at the Japanese Grand Prix, as well as working with the team testing previous cars. 

“It is a great opportunity to be working with such a dedicated team that utilises the breadth of experience of its driver pool and I look forward to playing a part in making 2025 a positive year together.”

Hirakawa has long been associated with Toyota 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 had recently signed a technical partnership with Haas F1 team, and Hirakawa even got a chance to sample its 2024 car at the Abu Dhabi young driver test in December, while retaining his links with McLaren.

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

“It is great to bring Ryo on board with the team for 2025 and have him step in 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 important in providing the team with support in various areas of development through our TPC programme and simulator work, and we are looking forward to welcoming him to the team as we press ahead with preparations for the new season.”

Alpine will have an updated driver line-up in 2025, with rookie Jack Doohan stepping up from Formula 2 to partner Pierre Gasly. Doohan will replace Esteban Ocon, who will be racing for Haas this year.