Jack Doohan will be replaced by Ryo Hirakawa for FP1 at the Japanese Grand Prix. The popular home hero will experience F1 machinery at the legendary Suzuka Circuit. Hirakawa has previously driven F1 machinery as part of McLaren’s driver development programme in 2024, and completed the post-season test with Haas last year as a result of his links to Toyota GAZOO Racing.

Now, the 31-year-old will drive in FP1 for Alpine as part of his test and reserve driver duties for the Enstone-based team. Hirakawa is joined by Franco Colapinto, Kush Maimi and Paul Aron on the sidelines at Oliver Oakes’ squad.

“I’m very excited, I can’t wait to drive the A525 in Free Practice One this weekend,” Hirakawa said on Tuesday. “I’m looking back to 18 years ago to 2007, the first time I went to watch the Japanese Grand Prix, it was a different track, Fuji, but it was Formula One in Japan.

“Since then, I started my racing career and now to drive during the weekend is going to be a dream come true, I just can’t wait. I have got everything prepared, we did simulator work in Enstone a few days ago and I’m going to enjoy the moment.

“Hopefully the weather is good, it will be a short session, but I will enjoy it and do my best for the team to hopefully input some direction on set up. I just want to add my appreciation to everyone at the team for the opportunity and support.”

While Hirakawa is not viewed as a likely full-time driver candidate for Alpine, fellow reserve Colapinto has been heavily linked with a mid-season promotion, ousting incumbent rookie Doohan. The young Australian has just three Grand Prix weekends under his belt but is already coming under increasing pressure.

After two rounds of the 2025 season, Doohan is in a precarious position. The 22-year-old crashed on the opening lap at his home race in Melbourne and picked up four penalty points for a couple of clumsy incidents at the Chinese Grand Prix. Doohan will be desperate for a clean weekend in Japan, although missing FP1 is far from ideal preparation for the rookie.

However, he believes that Hirakawa’s presence could be a boost to his chances. “He has a lot of experience here so it will be good to take some of that knowledge for the weekend,” Doohan explained. “The aim will be to make the most of the weekend and score some all-important points for the team.”