Just a day after the excitement of the Japanese Grand Prix, the Haas F1 Team has made a strategic move by signing Ryo Hirakawa as their official reserve driver for the 2025 season.
Hirakawa, previously associated with Alpine, showcased his talent during the first practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix. His journey in F1 has been impressive, having also driven for McLaren in the Abu Dhabi practice sessions last year. The 31-year-old’s career trajectory has now led him to Haas, where he will play a crucial role in the upcoming races.
Hirakawa’s involvement with Toyota has been significant, accentuating his expertise in the racing domain. At Haas, he will replace Oliver Bearman in the first practice session in Bahrain, among other sessions. The team principal, Ayao Komatsu, expressed his enthusiasm about the new addition. According to Komatsu, Hirakawa’s previous feedback has been instrumental in enhancing their car’s performance. The collaboration with Toyota GAZOO Racing further strengthens this partnership.
Hirakawa is set to drive in other practice sessions as well, including events in Mexico, Spain, and Abu Dhabi. This opportunity allows him to not only contribute to Haas’s performance but also to gain invaluable experience across various circuits. Hirakawa conveyed his excitement to join the team, expressing his appreciation for the opportunity and the new challenges ahead.
With Hirakawa’s assistance, Haas aims to bolster their performance throughout the F1 2025 championship. His presence is expected to bring fresh insights and strategies that could be pivotal for the team’s success.
Hirakawa’s inclusion as Haas’s reserve driver is a testament to his skills and potential in Formula 1. The partnership with Toyota and his diverse experience across teams set a promising stage for both him and Haas in the coming season.
