The F1 World Championship race weekend promises to be exciting, especially from a Japanese perspective, as local fans won't just see Yuki Tsunoda take to the track.
Another youngster will get his chance, specifically Toyota WEC driver Ryo Hirakawa will take the wheel of Alpine for 2025. Hirakawa could race in FP1 of the Japanese Grand Prix in place of Jack Doohan and will not be completely unfamiliar with getting behind the wheel of a Formula 1 race car, having already gained experience with Oscar Piastri's McLaren in Abu Dhabi last year.
“I’m really excited and can’t wait to drive the A525 in the first practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix. 18 years ago, in 2007, I was at Fuji watching the Japanese Grand Prix, and soon I’ll have the chance to experience first-hand what it’s like to race in front of my fanatical compatriots. It’s a dream come true, I’m really looking forward to it!” said Hirakawa.
Photo: McLaren
