As Alpine gears up for the 2025 World Endurance Championship (WEC), significant changes are underway, particularly for Mick Schumacher, who will now be joined by Frederic Makowiecki and Jules Gounon as part of the team in the #36 Alpine A424 LMDh. This evolution marks a pivotal moment for Schumacher, making his second year in sports car racing distinct with the introduction of two new teammates. Last year’s pairing included the likes of Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere, who have now transitioned into roles with the Signatech-run Hypercar class team, underscoring a reshuffle that aims to enhance the overall performance and stability of the team.
In the realm of motorsport, team cohesion is as critical as individual talent. Alpine’s management, including motorsport boss Bruno Famin and Signatech’s Philippe Sinault, emphasized the importance of stability within their 2025 driver line-up. They have worked diligently to create a framework that nurtures candidate synergy, extending beyond mere skill sets. Sinault was clear in his remarks about the necessity of building upon their initial successes from the previous season. He recognized the immense contributions of returning drivers like Charles Milesi and Paul-Loup Chatin, and maintained that Schumacher, with fresh partnerships, would benefit from this stability while potentially bringing a new dynamic to the team.
Frederic Makowiecki’s transition from Porsche signifies a bold move towards new challenges and opportunities within Alpine. His experience, especially with the Porsche 963, adds a significant layer of depth and tactical insight to the team’s aspirations. Both Sinault and Lapierre underlined Makowiecki’s profound technical background, asserting that his insights and track experience could be crucial in navigating the complexities of the Hypercar class.
On the other hand, Jules Gounon’s promotion to a full-time race seat remains a testament to his rapid development and prior contributions as a reserve driver. Having participated in four of last year’s races, Gounon brings a unique perspective, particularly from his extensive background in GT racing that is anticipated to further boost the team’s technical prowess within the Hypercar project.
Alpine’s strategy for the upcoming season seems meticulous and well-executed, with a clear focus on building upon their existing strengths while integrating fresh talent. The #36 car’s performance in the previous season, including a podium finish at Fuji, demonstrates the tangible potential that this team harnesses. Gounon’s role, combined with Makowiecki’s seasoned expertise and Schumacher’s ongoing development, positions Alpine to potentially ascend the ranks within the championship standings.
As the team sets out for the 2025 WEC season, they are not just assembling a group of skilled drivers; they are fostering a collaborative environment where shared expertise and experiences will dictate their successes. With ambitions to build on their previous performances, this reconfiguration holds promise, driving the Alpine team towards significant achievements in the high-pressure world of endurance racing.