F1: Hirakawa joins Haas as reserve driver

Ryo Hirakawa has stop Alpine to hitch Haas as its official reserve driver, the teenager set to take part in 4 FP1 classes all through the season.

The Japanese driver, who exchange Jack Doohan within the Alpine at Suzuka on Friday, and at present competes for Toyota GAZOO Racing within the World Endurance Championship, joins the American group following a profitable outing on the post-season take a look at in Abu Dhabi final December the place he drove the VF-24.

Having participated in a number of FP1 outings with F1 groups, from 2024 to as just lately as final weekend, Hirakawa brings expertise from throughout the paddock, and is scheduled to get behind the wheel of the VF-25 at 4 FP1 classes this season.

Taking on driving duties from Oliver Bearman for FP1 this weekend in Bahrain, and once more in Mexico later within the season, team-mate Esteban Ocon will then vacate his seat totally free apply classes for Hirakawa in Spain and Abu Dhabi.

The 2022 Le Mans winner, and two-time Hypercar Champion has expertise over a number of disciplines; together with Tremendous Components, Tremendous GT and the World Endurance Championship.

“I am excited to hitch Haas, I actually recognize this chance, and I am actually wanting ahead to a brand new journey with the group,” mentioned Hirakawa. “I am driving my first FP1 session in Bahrain, so for me to have pushed at two race weekends in a row is thrilling, and I can not wait to get to Bahrain.

“I wish to thank Komatsu-san, MoneyGram Haas F1 Group, Morizo-san (Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Company) and Toyota GAZOO Racing for this chance, it is a new problem for me and I can not wait to get began.”

“It is nice to welcome Ryo to Haas and have his expertise bolster our information and understanding of the VF-25,” added Ayao Komatsu. “His suggestions was very detailed on the post-season take a look at final yr, so with the ability to present Ryo precious monitor time throughout 4 totally different circuits this yr will assist your entire group.

“As a part of our collaboration with Toyota GAZOO Racing, it is nice to welcome new expertise into the group – it is an actual pleasure to work with a racer of his driving acumen.”