This will remain as one of the most beautiful images of the season: the parade lap, after the finish of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix yesterday, between Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly. The two men, side by side, greeted each other after their exceptional double podium.
Like his teammate, Pierre Gasly also had stars in his eyes when describing this lap of honor, as memorable as it was unexpected. The two men, who were announced as the best enemies, certainly did not become the best friends in the world, but they knew how to remain professional until the end… For a grand finale – even if there are 3 Grands Prix left!
“I don’t think anyone can fully understand. It’s a very personal relationship between Esteban and me” commented Pierre Gasly last night.
“We’ve been through so much together. As he said, we found ourselves in winter, at minus 5 degrees, alone on the kart track, driving in the rain, the snow, with slick tires, when we were 9, 10, 11 years old. We really trained in these conditions, and in the race at Interlagos, I can say that all this experience made the difference. I remember we went back into the truck to warm up after a few laps, we were so freezing. We had our ups and downs, but this two-year adventure as teammates, I think we can be very proud of the way we helped the team progress. »
“The season was difficult, but we always tried to push the team in the right direction, never giving up. Even though the car was temperamental for the majority of the season, everyone gave their best, and it was a historic day for the team. Very proud of everyone who works with us to achieve such a result. »
Gasly had to resist Russell
During a good part of the race, Pierre Gasly had to resist the pressure imposed by the Mercedes F1 of George Russell. Not making a mistake on a tricky track at Interlagos was a constant acrobatics.
“Yes, he was definitely present in my mirrors. It wasn't easy. The conditions were complicated, I wasn't really comfortable with the balance of the car. But I always kept him at a distance, I don't think he ever considered trying anything. As long as I kept it at one second, that was enough. He damaged his tires a bit, so the end of the race was long, but we managed to contain him. »
“There were battles with Lando in the restart, and with Charles too. The race seemed endless, between the red flag and the weather conditions. But we made the right choices, an impeccable strategy, and it was a great day for the team. »
The last double French podium dates back to 1997, with Alesi and Panis!
“It’s great to see that we are achieving something after so much waiting for the French. It's very special. On a day like today, for the whole team, for Esteban, for me, after a difficult season. You have to come every weekend with the same state of mind, the same approach, give the best of yourself, even if the chances are not very high. It's important to never give up because, on a day like this, anything is possible. »
“I'm very grateful to the team for all the hard work, because it's definitely worth it when you get both cars on the podium. I don't think anyone in the world would have thought that at some point this year two Alpines would be on the podium. »
“I would like to know the person who bet on this” sourit Ocon.
“Well, if there is one, she’s a real genius!” » relance Gasly. “That’s what I love about F1, these unique opportunities. You have to be there when they show up. Nothing is guaranteed. Many others could have taken this chance, but in the end, it was Esteban and me. »
What is certain is that Pierre Gasly's already great love for Interlagos has been taken to a new level!
“Just look at the crowd. Honestly, it’s such an iconic track. This year was special with the legacy left by Ayrton and the 30 years. This morning, at 5 o'clock, when my eyes were still a little closed from fatigue, I saw all these people lining up and I was impressed. The energy we receive in these moments makes us truly grateful. Being able to experience these moments, and feeling this emotion a few hours later, is a memorable memory that will stay with us forever. »
