Pierre Gasly is gearing up for the 2025 Formula 1 season, looking to build on some strong performances from the previous year. He scored points in four of the final five races and even made it to the podium. However, it’s been tough for his Alpine team. They hit early performance issues and decided to shift focus to their 2026 car, which left them at the bottom of the championship standings.
In a recent chat with F1.com, Gasly reflected on his time at Alpine, expressing optimism about the team’s future. He believes they have the potential to bounce back.
Gathered in Alpine’s hospitality unit in Mexico City, Gasly spoke candidly about his highs and lows in Formula 1, his motivations, and even his interests outside of racing. When he took a moment to pause and think, he noted how it felt surreal that he’s nearing a decade in the sport, having kicked off his career with Toro Rosso back in 2017.
His journey has been anything but straightforward. After a brief promotion to Red Bull, which lasted only twelve races, he returned to Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri) and achieved a memorable victory at Monza in 2020. Gasly then joined Alpine in late 2022, expecting to build on previous successes.
However, three inconsistent seasons have seen Alpine slide down the ranks, with 2025 marking a new low, finishing in last place. Gasly admitted that while there have been high points like podium finishes, the overall performance has not met expectations.
He remarked how challenging it has been with frequent changes in management and team structure. Gasly reflected, “Every time it’s felt like a fresh start.” Yet he remains confident about the team’s future, saying, “I feel like we’ve been through the rough part and brighter days are coming.”
Part of his optimism comes from Alpine’s strategic decision to stop further developments on the 2025 car and focus on the 2026 season, which promises major regulatory changes. This head start could mean greater success, although Gasly stressed there are no guarantees. He understands the need to aim higher instead of settling for mid-pack finishes.
“There’s no point in just aiming for sixth or seventh place,” he stated. “We’re here to compete at the top.”
Gasly is particularly enthusiastic about recent changes at Alpine. The team has a fresh managerial balance under Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore and Managing Director Steve Nielsen. After various leadership changes, he believes they’ve assembled a great team, filled with talented engineers and mechanics.
“Some of the best technical staff are here,” he claimed, expressing excitement about the strong culture within the team.
Looking ahead, a significant leap for Alpine could come from switching to Mercedes engines in 2026. Gasly acknowledged Mercedes’ successful track record and hinted that he’s eager to experience their power. “There have been so many achievements with their engines, and I think it’s going to be a thrilling journey,” he said.
Reflecting on his own career, Gasly noted his ups and downs since joining the F1 grid. He mentioned how he had to rebuild his reputation after his initial stint at Red Bull didn’t go as planned.
“I’ve learned that sometimes things just don’t work out,” he said. “But I’ve never stopped putting in the effort.”
Gasly feels a strong desire to prove himself, especially as he sees peers like Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris getting opportunities to shine. “I know what I can achieve, and I’m ready for that chance,” he stated.
Ultimately, Success at Alpine would mean a lot not just for him, but for the entire team. Gasly emphasized, “We’re united in our struggles, which builds a strong bond. I want to help bring this brand back to the top.”
He expressed pride in representing a French team and is determined to make it happen soon. As he gears up for the 2026 season, all eyes will be on Gasly and Alpine as they aim to reclaim their spot among the elite in Formula 1.
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