Nothing is stopping Pierre Gasly at the end of the 2024 F1 season. The Frenchman once again allowed Alpine to stand out yesterday in Sao Paulo.
The Alpine F1 team continues to show its competitiveness at the end of the 2024 F1 season, in particular thanks to Pierre Gasly, who once again reached the final phase of sprint qualifying in Brazil.
Friday evening in the Interlagos paddock, Gasly did not hide his enthusiasm after this new successful qualification. He explained that this performance marked his third consecutive entry into Q3, although this was a sprint qualification.
“It’s a good day for us. Reaching Q3 for the sprint is proof of our consistency” he declared, highlighting the regularity of his performances at the end of the season.
Gasly also highlighted his ease at the wheel, which allowed him to progress throughout the day: “I felt good in the car from the first sessions.”
This confidence allowed him to pass SQ1, then to string together good times by gradually increasing the pace. Gasly thus places himself at the head of the middle of the pack, a positive sign for the team and a confirmation of their constant progress.
Objective points for the sprint
With this good qualification, Pierre Gasly is now aiming for points during the sprint race: “The goal is to be competitive tomorrow and score points.”
Aware that it will not be easy, he remains confident about his chances of shining in this fast and intense race. It ensures that the team remains focused and motivated to maximize the weekend's opportunities.
Ocon frustrated by his early elimination
If Gasly is satisfied with his performance, the situation is more complex for Esteban Ocon, his teammate. The Frenchman failed to pass SQ1, a disappointment which contrasts with Gasly's enthusiasm.
“We can't be happy with our result, even if the sensations were good in SQ1” confides Ocon. Despite a clean and error-free lap, it is clear that something is missing to advance into qualifying.
Ocon and his team will have to find the reasons for this poor performance and identify areas for improvement for the rest of the weekend. He knows that the task will not be easy but remains determined to seize the next opportunities.
A new chance during the sprint
Although this sprint qualifying session was not favorable for Ocon, he did not let it get him down. Tomorrow's sprint represents an opportunity to do better and learn.
“We must aim for progress and explore all avenues for improvement” he emphasizes, saying he is ready to give his all to get the best out of the car and thus hopes to achieve a good result despite this difficult start.
With a Gasly in full confidence and an Ocon determined to bounce back, Alpine F1 is approaching the sprint race with clear objectives. While Gasly is aiming for points to confirm his good form, Ocon hopes to progress and make up for lost ground.
The Brazilian weekend promises to be crucial for Alpine, which wants to finish the season in style with solid performances from its two drivers.