Pierre Gasly believes that Alpine is capable of delivering the machinery that will enable him to fulfil his ultimate ambition of competing at the front of the Formula 1 field.
Alpine failed to build on an encouraging beginning to the current ground effect regulations in 2022, regressing to sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship last term.
The previous campaign marked Gasly’s first F1 season outside of the Red Bull stable and he impressed by outscoring team-mate and compatriot Esteban Ocon 62 points to 58.
Gasly, who struggled at Red Bull and was demoted after 12 races in 2019, is certain that he is at the peak of his powers and desires a second crack at the sharp end.
Although a Mercedes seat is available for 2025 amid Lewis Hamilton’s shock move to Ferrari, the Frenchman is convinced that Alpine can align with his lofty ambitions.
“It was unexpected for most people,” Gasly told select media including Motorsport Week about Hamilton’s switch. “Obviously it changes slightly the dynamics of the driver market and the whole silly season.
“Obviously I started with Alpine last year. I know the project I’m working on. I have the end of my contract at the end of the year and obviously there are conversations ongoing.
“I think the situation is pretty clear, but at the moment I just want to see what this car is capable of.
“Ultimately my goal is to fight at the front. I believe it’s possible with Alpine. I’m 28, good experience, I’m in my prime and that’s what I’m working for. I want to fight for wins, for podiums and be up there.”
Alpine Team Principal Bruno Famin confirmed at the launch of Alpine’s 2024 car that discussions with Gasly and Ocon had commenced regarding contract extensions.
“It’s an ongoing process and we have had conversations,” Gasly confirmed. “I think it’s going to start going crazy after a couple of races or maybe it did already.
“Obviously as a driver, I’ve got my team to do this type of job. I’m focusing on what I’ve got to do as a driver because ultimately that’s what I want to do. I want to perform, I want to give my absolute best, I want to do my absolute best for the team.
“500 people worked day and night to get that car as good as they can and then my job is to bring it to further up the grid as I can so it’s what I focus on.”
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