Racing World Shaken: Hirakawa Ousts Doohan from Alpine Seat at Suzuka FP1
In a shocking turn of events, Ryo Hirakawa has been announced as the replacement for Jack Doohan in Alpine for the upcoming Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix’s opening practice session at Suzuka. The Toyota World Endurance Championship champion has stepped in as a reserve driver for Alpine this season, following his previous role at McLaren last year.
Hirakawa’s F1 weekend debut took place at the 2024 Abu Dhabi GP when he replaced Oscar Piastri in a McLaren MCL38. Expressing his excitement, Hirakawa stated, “I’m very excited, I can’t wait to drive the A525 in Free Practice 1 this weekend,” fulfilling the first of four mandatory rookie outings this year. He further added, “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.”
Hirakawa’s move to Alpine has raised eyebrows, especially considering his departure from McLaren’s reserve driver lineup. It is believed that the Japanese driver saw a better opportunity at Alpine to eventually secure a spot on the F1 grid, as McLaren’s seats are locked with Piastri and Lando Norris for the foreseeable future.
With a successful career in Japan’s Super Formula from 2013 to 2023, Hirakawa brings a wealth of experience to Alpine. Having clinched two WEC titles with Toyota, including a victory at the 2022 Le Mans 24 Hours, he is a force to be reckoned with. Additionally, his ties with Toyota also position him as an unofficial reserve driver for Haas, further solidifying his presence in the F1 paddock.
As Hirakawa gears up to take on the challenging Suzuka circuit in Alpine’s machinery, the F1 world braces for an electrifying FP1 session. Stay tuned for more updates on this unexpected driver swap and its implications for the ongoing season.
