As we approach the 2025 racing season, Alpine’s World Endurance Championship (WEC) team is gearing up for significant changes. Prominent among these adjustments is the inclusion of Mick Schumacher, who will be teaming up with Frederic Makowiecki and Jules Gounon in the #36 Alpine A424 LMDh car. This change not only brings fresh talent to the team but also introduces a dynamic that could prove instrumental in the development and success of Alpine’s racing endeavors. Transitioning from a previous partnership with Nicolas Lapierre and Matthieu Vaxiviere, Schumacher’s new full-season teammates will surely be striving to make a mark in their respective roles.
In motorsport, the delicate balance between familiarity and new ideas is often pivotal to success. Alpine’s strategy appears to embrace this principle, as team boss Philippe Sinault emphasized the need for stability in the 2025 driver line-up. Retaining the core team with Charles Milesi, Ferdinand Habsburg, and Paul-Loup Chatin provides a reliable foundation built on their previous contributions. However, the addition of Makowiecki and Gounon signifies a commitment to innovation—Makowiecki’s transition from Porsche to Alpine showcases a driver eager to tackle new challenges, while Gounon’s full-time promotion acknowledges the value of experience. His prior involvement as a reserve driver allows for a smooth transition into a greater responsibility.
Makowiecki: A Veteran of Virtue
Frederic Makowiecki’s move to Alpine marks a noteworthy chapter in his career. A seasoned driver with substantial experience in Hypercar racing, he is recognized for his technical acumen and adaptability. This expertise is critical to Alpine’s ambitions, particularly at this stage of their evolution in endurance racing. Having played a role in developing the Porsche 963—both in simulation and on the track—Makowiecki’s contributions are expected to enhance the team’s overall performance and strategy. His perspective could provide crucial insights as the team looks to fine-tune the A424 to compete at the highest levels.
Meanwhile, Jules Gounon’s elevation to a full-time race seat underscores Alpine’s belief in nurturing talent. After participating in several races in a reserve capacity, Gounon is now poised to capitalize on the experience gained in 2024. His GT background brings a wealth of knowledge that could substantially benefit the team as they seek to optimize their approach on the circuit. As they refine their racing techniques, Gounon’s previous exposure to various racing conditions will be invaluable.
The Road Ahead
The upcoming WEC season has the potential to redefine Alpine’s trajectory in endurance racing. With Schumacher, Makowiecki, and Gounon leading the charge, the team is set to build on its foundation while integrating fresh perspectives. The groundwork laid in 2024, including a notable podium finish at Fuji, has established a baseline for improvement, and the 2025 line-up is equipped to further elevate the team’s presence in the championship. As the racing community watches closely, it will be fascinating to see how Alpine harnesses the talents of its new drivers to pave the way for future successes.
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