Alpine awaiting Franco Colapinto signs McLaren’s Ryo Hirakawa as third driver. Alpine selects its reserve driver: official signing of Hirakawa, former McLaren driver.

Alpine has not denied its interest in Franco Colapinto, but while awaiting news about the Argentine driver, the French team has chosen its reserve driver for the 2025 season. The choice has fallen on Ryo Hirakawa, a familiar face in F1 and McLaren.

Ryo Hirakawa, a Japanese driver, won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 and was world champion in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2022 and 2023. Starting in 2025, he will be the reserve driver for the Alpine team, with the possibility of participating in a series of tests and practice sessions.

Who is Ryo Hirakawa, Alpine’s new reserve driver
In recent years, Hirakawa has gained valuable experience working with McLaren, where he had the chance to use the simulator and participate in rookie tests in Abu Dhabi. He also drove the Haas VF-24 at the Yas Marina circuit. This was made possible by an agreement between the American team and Toyota’s sports division.

“It’s an honor to join Alpine as a test and reserve driver for the 2025 season,” Ryo Hirakawa said. “Getting on track with Formula 1 cars is every driver’s dream. I’m looking forward to working with the team to make 2025 a successful year.”

Moreover, the Japanese driver will likely be given the opportunity to participate in free practice for his home Grand Prix in Suzuka, scheduled for April. “The opportunity to get on track with Formula 1 cars is the pinnacle for drivers. I’m excited to drive in Free Practice 1 in front of the home crowd at the Japanese Grand Prix.”

Oliver Oakes, Alpine’s team principal, emphasized the significance of Hirakawa’s arrival. “It’s great to bring Ryo into the team for 2025. His diverse experience will enrich our group of reserve drivers, providing support in various aspects of development through our TPC program and simulator work.”