Japanese Ryo Hirakawa has joined Alpine as one of their two test and reserve drivers this year. The 30-year-old, who was a development driver for McLaren in 2024, will take part in first practice at the Japanese Grand Prix for the team on 4 April.

Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa will take part in first practice for his home Formula One grand prix at Suzuka in April after being added to the test and reserve roster at Renault-owned Alpine. Read more at straitstimes.

Alpine has announced a new test and reserve driver for 2025. Ryo Hirakawa moves to the French team where he will do simulator work but will also be in action during the first free practice of the Japanese Grand Prix.

Alpine has added another driver to its roster for the F1 2025 season, amid speculation over Franco Colapinto’s future in the sport. Alpine will field Ryo Hirakawa in a test and reserve driver role this season,