Pierre Gasly is taking responsibility at Alpine and wants to keep the team’s spirits high despite continued lack of success – focus on 2026
Pierre Gasly speaks openly about the difficult situation at Alpine. The Frenchman explains that he is trying to be “the main factor for motivation” in the team, while the team has focused its development heavily on 2026.
“I think the most important thing on my part is to keep the motivation high in the team – for everyone in the team,” says Gasly. “Because at the end of the day, as much frustration as I build up because I can’t bring back any points, they are just as disappointed. Everyone puts their heart into it, works crazy hours, travels around the world to give us the opportunity to drive with the best possible equipment.”
Alpine is currently in what is arguably the weakest phase of its history. Over the last five Grands Prix, Gasly’s 15th place in Mexico was the best result, while every other team scored at least nine points.
Full focus on 2026
Gasly explains that the Enstone-based team focused its resources on the new regulations early on. “We definitely know that we’ve taken a step back in terms of performance,” he says. “We’ve seen teams like Haas still bringing upgrades, even in Austin, while we haven’t brought any updates for months—but that’s okay. We know we have four race weekends left, and after that, another project begins.”
He defends the decision to barely develop the current car further: “I’m very excited. I’m sitting between two stools right now because this year is extremely tough for everyone in the team, and we’re not competitive at all – for reasons we know and because of decisions we’ve made tactically.”
“If it brings me better results next year, I don’t care about this season at all – and it will be worth it,” he emphasizes.
Gasly: Sometimes you have to make tough decisions
Gasly believes the strategy is the right one, even if it hurts in the short term. “What we could have achieved this year wouldn’t have been good enough for us anyway,” he says. “These weeks and months can give us an edge over other teams and bring us much greater success – that’s ultimately the goal.”
“I fully support the team in what we’ve done. It’s a bit drastic, but sometimes you have to make tough decisions to achieve greatness.” He is convinced that the sacrifices will pay off in the long run: “We know what we’re working towards, and I’m not losing sight of the big picture.”
Responsibility as team leader
Gasly emphasizes that his role goes beyond just driving. “I have to look at the bigger picture—beyond the 1,500 people who work at the track and in the factory,” he says. “And especially when we know we’re working toward something much bigger for 2026.”
He admits that he is not enjoying the current situation very much. “Am I enjoying it as much as I usually do? No. But I am aware of the project I am working on and what is coming in the next few years. That’s why it’s important for me to be the main factor in motivating everyone on the team,” Gasly emphasizes.
