Ryō Hirakawa has experienced some of the biggest moments endurance racing has to offer. A two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a World Endurance Champion with Toyota, the Japanese driver has spent years competing at the highest level of international motorsport. Yet one dream, dating back to his childhood, had remained unfulfilled: starting a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
That changed in Mexico City, where Hirakawa made his Grand Prix debut with Haas at the age of 32. An opportunity that came late in his career, but one for which his years of experience at the highest level of motorsport had undoubtedly prepared him.
In the latest episode of The Stint Podcast, Hirakawa looks back on the circumstances surrounding his debut, the challenges of adapting to a Formula 1 car during a race weekend and the emotions of finally taking his place on the grid.
He also discusses the differences between Formula 1 and endurance racing, the discipline in which he has built his career.
Watch the full interview below, or listen to The Stint Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major podcast platforms.
