‘Today was my dream’ – Ryo Hirakawa ‘really happy’ with Formula 1 debut for Haas in 2026 Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix

Ryo Hirakawa’s Formula 1 debut “was my dream” after the Japanese driver finished the Mexico City Grand Prix, eventually being promoted into the points.

Hirakawa was a late call-up to the Haas team, replacing Esteban Ocon at the American outfit on Saturday morning, but having already taken part in Free Practice 1 as a designated ‘rookie’ driver.

With another hour of practice under his belt, the 32-year-old eventually qualified P19 before starting his maiden Grand Prix from a spot higher on the grid after a penalty for Liam Lawson.

Hirakawa circulated in the midfield battle for much of the 71-lap race at Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez on Sunday, eventually finishing P13 on the road, with seeing the chequered flag his ultimate goal.

But things became even better post-race, as Hirakawa joined an exclusive club of drivers to score points on their F1 debuts after time penalties for Oscar Piastri and the two Alpines of Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly promoted him to P10.

“Was a lot of things to do, especially the start and lap one, it was not easy,” said Hirakawa before being promoted into the points.

“Especially here going to Turn 1 is so long you think about a lot of braking points, the cars side by side, in front, behind. So I think the start I took too much margin because I really wanted to finish the race because I want to learn. But it is what it is.

“After that I was trying to learn from the others what they are doing. Maybe the first stint was really tough, we didn’t have the pace but I learnt a lot. After the Safety Car with the C5 [tyre], then I had more confidence and passed two cars. I’m happy to finish like that.”

Haas are yet to confirm their driver line-up for this coming weekend in Brazil, with Hirakawa originally scheduled to compete for Toyota in the World Endurance Championship, where the title remains up for grabs.

Looking to the future, Hirakawa admitted he just had to savour the moment in Mexico for what might prove to be his only F1 start.

“I think I just need to taste this moment. I’m really happy, today was my dream,” he said. “Just enjoy this moment and see what we can do.”