Pierre Gasly Extends Contract with Alpine
Pierre Gasly has officially extended his contract with Alpine, ensuring his commitment to the French Formula 1 team for the foreseeable future. The 28-year-old French driver, who had previously expressed his long-term ambitions with the team, announced the news on X (formerly Twitter). Gasly emphasized his dedication to Alpine's project despite a challenging season on the track, highlighting the potential and resources within the team.
Gasly stated, 'I feel very comfortable in this great team. I have officially been here for over 18 months and I have always intended to build a long-term project with the team. Although the season has been difficult on the track so far, I remain faithful to the project and I will not go anywhere.' The exact duration of the 'multi-year' contract has not been disclosed.
Carlos Sainz Rumored to Join Alpine
The extension of Gasly's contract comes amidst rumors of Carlos Sainz joining Alpine. The Spanish driver, currently with Ferrari, is reportedly in discussions with Alpine. Sainz's potential move is influenced by the arrival of Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025, prompting Sainz to explore other opportunities. Alpine's offer includes a one-year contract with the possibility of greater freedom in the future, making it an attractive option for Sainz.
Bruno Famin, the boss of Alpine F1, expressed his excitement about the contract extension and the potential addition of Sainz. 'The extension of Pierre’s contract with the team is a real pleasure. He is a driver with a wealth of experience in Formula 1 and continues to show enormous potential on track. He is a great ambassador for the Alpine brand, so we look forward to continuing our collaboration. We have big ambitions and we will work tirelessly to achieve them.'
As the F1 transfer market heats up, Esteban Ocon, who is set to leave Alpine, is exploring new opportunities. Ocon is rumored to be joining Haas or Williams, with the latter being a potential game-changer if Sainz decides to join Alpine. The Normandy team's strategic moves and the involvement of Flavio Briatore as an executive advisor are pivotal in shaping their future lineup.
- Gasly, with 140 starts in F1, has been with Alpine for over 18 months and remains committed to the team's long-term vision despite a difficult season. His extension was anticipated following the announcement of Esteban Ocon's departure.
- Carlos Sainz's potential move to Alpine is a significant development in the F1 transfer market. Currently at Ferrari, Sainz is exploring options due to the expected arrival of Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025. Alpine's offer, influenced by Flavio Briatore, includes a one-year contract with future flexibility, making it appealing to Sainz.
- Esteban Ocon's future remains uncertain as he explores opportunities with Haas and Williams. The potential arrival of Sainz at Alpine could impact Ocon's decisions, with Williams being a notable option if Sainz chooses Alpine. Sauber is also in the mix, looking for a driver to join Nico Hulkenberg.