Hirakawa Misses Out on F1 Drive, Will Stay at Toyota

Ryo Hirakawa has missed out on securing a Haas Formula 1 drive for next season and will therefore remain with the Toyota World Endurance Championship squad.

Hirakawa was one of several drivers Haas evaluated to replace Esteban Ocon next year, but it ultimately opted for FIA Formula 2 points leader Rafael Camara.

This decision means Hirakawa will therefore remain at Toyota for a sixth season in the WEC next year.

Toyota team boss David Floury told Sportscar365 last month that the Japanese manufacturer already had “a plan in mind” in the event that Hirakawa secured the F1 drive, believed to be reserve racer Esteban Masson stepping up.

But he will now have to wait for an opportunity to race a Hypercar as Mike Conway’s seat at Toyota is expected to be taken by Porsche IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship contender Kevin Estre as part of a dual program for the Frenchman in what is likely to be an otherwise unchanged Toyota roster.