Doohan makes way for Hirakawa in Japanese GP FP1

Hirakawa is one of four reserve drivers Alpine has signed up: Franco Colapinto, Kush Maini, and Paul Aron. But the Japanese driver will be the first to sample the team's A525 in front of his home fans at Suzuka this weekend.

Speaking in Alpine's Japanese Grand Prix preview, Hirakawa said: "I'm very excited, I can't wait to drive the A525 in Free Practice 1 this weekend.

"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," he recalled. "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," Hirakawa concluded.

Doohan, luckily, has had some past experience at Suzuka, which may soften the blow of losing a full practice session, especially since he is a rookie, but claimed he is keen to pick Hirakawa's brain after the session.

"The circuit is one I particularly love," Doohan stated. "I have raced there previously in Asian F3, but this will be my first time experiencing it in Formula One machinery which will provide a whole new challenge with its high speed and high-risk high-reward nature.

"I'll be in the car from Free Practice 2 as Ryo drives in Free Practice 1. He has a lot of experience here so it will be good to take some of that knowledge for the weekend.

"The aim will be to make the most of the weekend and score some all-important points for the team," Doohan concluded.