Ryo Hirakawa Joins Alpine as Test Driver

Ryo Hirakawa, a celebrated Le Mans 24 Hours winner and two-time World Endurance Championship driver, has been appointed as the test and reserve driver for Alpine in the 2025 Formula 1 season, following his previous stint with McLaren. He is set to engage in various roles, including simulator work and participating in the FP1 session at the Japanese Grand Prix, which marks a significant opportunity at his home race.

Alpine's team principal, Oliver Oakes, expressed his enthusiasm about Hirakawa's diverse racing background, highlighting how it will contribute positively to the team's talent pool and developmental initiatives. In addition to Hirakawa, Formula 2 driver Paul Aron has also been signed as a reserve driver, further bolstering Alpine's driver lineup for the upcoming season. Rookie Jack Doohan will join Pierre Gasly, while Esteban Ocon will transition to Haas, setting the stage for an intriguing 2025 campaign for Alpine.