Alpine is gearing up for the 2025 World Endurance Championship (WEC) season with an intriguing reshuffle in their driver line-up. Mick Schumacher will take the wheel alongside seasoned drivers Frederic Makowiecki and Jules Gounon in the #36 Alpine A424 LMDh. This fresh trio marks a significant transition for Schumacher as he embarks on his second year in sportscar racing. His previous season in 2024, spent alongside Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere, offered a learning curve, but the 2025 season promises more unique dynamics and challenges with new teammates.
This upcoming season marks a pivotal moment in Schumacher’s racing career. Having previously hesitated to disclose his future due to the competitive nature of Formula 1, the announcement from Alpine at the end of November last year finally confirmed his commitment to the WEC. This commitment is particularly important for Schumacher, who aims to solidify his reputation away from the shadow of his father, Michael Schumacher, and to make his own mark in the world of motorsport. The partnership with Makowiecki, who brings a wealth of experience from his time with Porsche, alongside Gounon, who is stepping into a full-time race seat after previously serving as a reserve driver, suggests that Schumacher is being placed alongside teammates who will push him to excel on the track.
A Strategic Approach to Team Composition
Philippe Sinault, the team principal at Signatech, highlights a core principle guiding their driver selection for 2025: stability. Along with motorsport boss Bruno Famin and Lapierre, the team emphasizes the importance of building upon the successes of the previous season. The continuity in the #35 car, featuring drivers Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin, reinforces this strategic approach as they seek to cultivate an environment rich in experience and collaboration. The combination of seasoned drivers and emerging talents in both cars aims to create a balanced dynamic conducive to success in the challenging WEC environment.
The Contributions of Makowiecki and Gounon
Frederic Makowiecki’s transition from Porsche to Alpine comes with high expectations. Recognized for his pioneering role in racing Porsche’s 963, his technical know-how is anticipated to enhance Alpine’s competitive edge. The WEC has recognized the increasing importance of driver versatility and adaptability, and Makowiecki embodies these traits. Similarly, Gounon’s promotion from reserve driver to a primary seat showcases the team’s commitment to pulling talent from within. His hands-on experience in four races last season will undoubtedly offer valuable insights as he encounters the rigors of a full season.
Alpine’s A424 made a considerable impact in its inaugural season, with Schumacher contributing significantly to the team’s achievements, including a podium finish at Fuji. By maintaining a focus on technical advancements and operational consistency, the team aims to build on this momentum. Their aspirations for the 2025 season encapsulate both continuity and evolution—a blend of familiar faces and fresh talent poised to handle the complexities of the championship. As Alpine ventures into the new season, the anticipation surrounding their driver line-up reflects the excitement and competitive spirit inherent in endurance racing.