Ryo Hirakawa is set to make an appearance at the 2025 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix driving Jack Doohan’s Alpine.
The highly accomplished Japanese racing driver will participate in opening practice, marking his second stint behind the wheel of a F1 car during an official Grand Prix weekend, following his debut with McLaren in Abu Dhabi last year.
The decision by Alpine to feature Ryo Hirakawa in FP1 aligns with the FIA’s mandate for teams to provide rookie drivers with at least two opportunities per season in each car, a rule aimed at nurturing emerging talent within the sport.
Hirakawa’s inclusion in FP1 at Suzuka is particularly noteworthy as it allows him to showcase his skills on home soil. The 31-year-old’s racing pedigree is impressive as he enjoys a stellar career across multiple motorsport disciplines.
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Hirakawa has achieved considerable success in endurance racing, including two FIA World Endurance Championship titles and a victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in his debut season with Toyota Gazoo Racing.
He is also a former Super GT champion and has consistently demonstrated his versatility across various racing formats. These accomplishments have earned him an FIA Platinum license, underscoring his status as one of Japan’s most skilled drivers.
Hirakawa’s presence in Formula 1 is part of Alpine’s strategic approach to integrating experienced reserve drivers into their program. His role within the team complements his ongoing participation in endurance racing with Toyota Gazoo Racing.
The move also highlights Alpine’s commitment to fostering local talent and engaging Japanese fans during one of the most anticipated races of the season.
Reflecting on his journey from being a spectator at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2007 to becoming a driver during the event, Ryo Hirakawa described the opportunity as a dream come true.
“I’m very excited, I can’t wait to drive the A525 in Free Practice 1 this weekend,“ Hirakawa said as he unveiled his special helmet for Suzuka. “I’m looking back to 18 years ago to 2007, the first time I went to watch the Japanese Grand Prix, it was a different track, Fuji, but it was Formula 1 in Japan.
“Since then, I started my racing career and now to drive during the weekend is going to be a dream come true, I just can’t wait. I have got everything prepared, we did simulator work in Enstone a few days ago and I’m going to enjoy the moment.
“Hopefully the weather is good, it will be a short session, but I will enjoy it and do my best for the team to hopefully input some direction on set up.
“I just want to add my appreciation to everyone at the team for the opportunity and support.”
Jack Doohan, meanwhile, will resume driving duties after FP1 and focus on improving his performance following challenging starts to the season.
As Alpine’s full-time driver, Doohan has yet to score points in 2025 F1 but remains determined to capitalize on his Asian F3 experience at Suzuka to make a mark in this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.
“The circuit is one I particularly love,” said Doohan. “I have raced there previously in Asian F3, but this will be my first time experiencing it in Formula 1 machinery which will provide a whole new challenge with its high speed and high-risk high-reward nature.
“I’ll be in the car from Free Practice 2 as Ryo Hirakawa drives in Free Practice 1. He has a lot of experience here so it will be good to take some of that knowledge for the weekend.
“The aim will be to make the most of the weekend and score some all-important points for the team.”
