Photo credit: www.motorsport.com
Ryo Hirakawa Joins Haas F1 Team as 2025 Reserve Driver
The Haas Formula 1 team has confirmed the addition of Ryo Hirakawa as its reserve driver for the 2025 season. The talented Japanese driver transitions from his role with Alpine, where he served as a reserve driver this season.
During his time at Alpine, Hirakawa participated in Friday’s practice sessions, including a notable appearance at the Japanese Grand Prix in place of Jack Doohan. With the collaboration between Haas and Toyota, Hirakawa’s move marks an important strategic shift as he takes over for the remainder of the current season.
Hirakawa is set to fulfill all four rookie FP1 slots for Haas, beginning this weekend at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he will drive Oliver Bearman’s car. Additionally, he will be stepping in for Bearman during the Mexican Grand Prix and will replace Esteban Ocon in the FP1 sessions at Barcelona and Abu Dhabi.
“I’m excited to join Haas F1 Team; I truly appreciate this opportunity and look forward to starting this new journey,” Hirakawa remarked. “My first FP1 session in Bahrain is on the horizon, and having the chance to drive at two race weekends in succession is thrilling for me. I can’t wait to get to Bahrain.”
He went on to express gratitude towards team principal Ayao Komatsu, Morizo-san (Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation), and Toyota Gazoo Racing, emphasizing that this role presents a new challenge for him.
Ryo Hirakawa, Haas VF-24
Photo by: Steven Tee / Motorsport Images
Hirakawa’s career in F1 began with McLaren in 2023, followed by a test session with Haas in Abu Dhabi in the previous year. This initiative is part of Toyota’s broader strategy to provide its top drivers with opportunities in Formula 1, especially since the company has not participated as a works team since its exit in 2009. Instead, Toyota has focused on success in the FIA World Endurance Championship, where it has continued to thrive, particularly with its 2022 Le Mans 24 Hours win and multiple world championship titles in the top class. Hirakawa also possesses significant experience in Japan’s domestic Super Formula series.
“It’s fantastic to have Ryo on board at Haas F1 Team, as his experience will enhance our understanding of the VF-25,” commented team principal Komatsu. “His detailed feedback during last year’s post-season test proved invaluable, and we believe that providing him with further track time across four different circuits this year will be beneficial for the entire team.”
In the wake of Hirakawa’s departure from Alpine, the team still has three reserve drivers available: ex-Williams pilot Franco Colapinto, Paul Aron, and Kush Maini, ensuring they maintain a robust lineup for the remainder of the season.
Source
www.motorsport.com