As the dust settles on the 2024 racing season, Alpine has officially announced an exciting new driver lineup for their World Endurance Championship (WEC) team for 2025. Mick Schumacher, the former Formula 1 star, will have the opportunity to partner with Frederic Makowiecki and Jules Gounon in the #36 Alpine A424 LMDh. This shift marks a significant milestone for Schumacher, who is entering his second year in sports car racing. The 2025 season will not only provide a fresh challenge but also the chance for Schumacher to build his reputation in a competitive environment with two new full-time teammates.
In contrast to his 2024 collaboration with Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere—who both now assume different roles within the team—Schumacher will experience a substantial change in team dynamics. The decision to replace Lapierre and Vaxiviere seems rooted in a strategic reassessment by Alpine’s management. Lapierre has transitioned to the role of sporting director, while Vaxiviere serves as a reserve driver for the Hypercar squad. This reshuffling indicates a broader strategy at Alpine to infuse fresh energy and perspectives into their racing lineup.
Frederic Makowiecki brings a wealth of experience to Alpine, having previously raced with Porsche in the Hypercar class. His move to the Alpine team appears to be motivated by a desire for new challenges, demonstrating both ambition and adaptability—qualities Alpine is keen to cultivate. Makowiecki’s experience in the Hypercar class, combining both simulator and real-world driving, positions him as a valuable asset to the team and adds a robust technical foundation at a critical juncture for the A424 project.
Jules Gounon’s promotion to a full-time race seat is noteworthy as it speaks to Alpine’s commitment to nurturing talent from within its ranks. After successfully serving as a reserve driver and participating in half the races last season, Gounon’s ascent is both a testament to his potential and the team’s ability to identify promising prospects. His background in GT racing is expected to enrich the ongoing development of the Hypercar project, adding depth to the team’s operational capabilities.
Philippe Sinault, the boss of Signatech, emphasized the importance of stability in forming the new lineup. He expressed confidence in the foundational work done by the returning drivers—Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin—who are maintaining their roles in the #35 vehicle. Stability seems to be a strategic imperative for Alpine, aiming to build upon past successes while adapting to the competitive landscape of endurance racing.
In a sport driven by performance and teamwork, the 2025 driver lineup for Alpine has set the stage for an exciting season ahead. The team’s recent achievements, including a podium finish at the Fuji round, indicate a positive trajectory in their quest for greater accolades. With a blend of seasoned expertise and emerging talent, Alpine motorsports appears well-poised to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season, making the 2025 WEC campaign one to watch.
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