Alpine Announces Renewable Deal with Pierre Gasly
The Renault Formula One team has announced a long-term contract extension with French pilot Pierre Gasly, with sources confirming that the deal will take the 32-year-old driver through to the 2025 season and beyond.Gasly, who joined Alpine’s forerunner, Renault, in 2017, has consistently demonstrated a level of proficiency on the track, accumulating a staggering 140 races under his belt to date.
According to internal sources, Gasly’s contract had been chosen by Alpine’s leaders for renewal, largely due to concerns regarding Esteban Ocon’s commitment to the team, which took a hit after a series of controversy-strewn events.
An Alternative Option: Carlos Sainz and Flavio Briatore
There are whispers hinting at the possibility of Carlos Sainz joining Alpine, concurrent with Flavio Briatore being named executive advisor. Briatore has been touted as considering other options, including a potential managerial role at Williams, Sauber, and perhaps even a seat at the negotiation table within Red Bull Racing, should Dutch ace Max Verstappen’s prospects of a downward spiral due to subpar performance continue unchecked. Mercedes has made a bid, which is allegedly supported by Company President Ola Kallenius, with no firm decision declared thus far.
Williams Develops Second Thoughts
Inside information suggests that an announcement regarding Gasly’s new partnership for next year may be delayed temporarily as Williams weighs up the consequences of joining forces with Alpine.
The team manager, Pierre Famin, expressed his satisfaction with Gasly’s renewal, highlighting his considerable experience in F1 and stating that Alpine hopes to cement a strong partnership with him moving forward:
“This extension of Pierre’s contract is greatly satisfactory. He is a driver with valuable experience in Formula One and continues to present tremendous potential on the track. As the representative of the Alpine brand, he is an effective ambassador, and therefore, We intend to continue our collaboration.”
Sources hint that the partnership will be secured over the coming days, with management acknowledging the need to consider the options more thoroughly before making an official announcement.
However, Famin emphasized: “We will work tirelessly this season to achieve our goals, and focusing on improving our current car is crucially important.”