In a dramatic turn of events in the Formula 1 world, Pierre Gasly is ramping up efforts to bring Carlos Sainz to Renault-owned Alpine. Sainz, who currently sits comfortably at fourth in the 2024 driver standings, is facing an imminent departure from Ferrari, facilitating a potential move that could see him team up with Gasly.
Gasly's Campaign to Recruit Sainz
Gasly, who is currently positioned 15th in the 2024 driver standings, has been vocal about his intentions to lure the Spanish driver to Alpine. "I did my fair share of the job, but ultimately I believe in the projects we're building with Alpine and I always back the team up," said Gasly. "Now it's up to him to make his own decision."
Gasly's confidence in Alpine's future is palpable. He believes the team has laid out a robust plan that could attract top talent. "I think Alpine, the team has good options on the table," he asserted. The options he's referring to have become particularly crucial as Esteban Ocon has announced his exit from Alpine at the end of the year.
Sainz's Calculated Approach
Sainz, on the other hand, appears to be taking a measured approach to his decisions. "It's only the timing that I'm changing, I'm not changing the outcome of anyone as probably all teams by now have their priorities and their decisions depending on each scenario," he explained. His departure from Ferrari seems to be a controlled and calculated move rather than a rushed decision.
Speculation is rife that Sainz's exit is paving the way for Lewis Hamilton's entry into the Ferrari camp. This shuffle has heightened the stakes and added a layer of complexity to the already intricate puzzle of driver lineups for the next season.
A Reserve and a World Endurance Specialist in the Mix
With the spotlight on Alpine, it's worth noting that the team has significant talent waiting in the wings. Jack Doohan currently serves as a reserve driver, while Mick Schumacher is involved with Alpine’s world endurance squad. This depth in their roster could offer stability as the team navigates through these transitions.
Constructors Cup Standings
As the season progresses, Alpine finds itself in the eighth spot in the constructors cup, a position reflective of the challenges the team has faced. Williams, on the other hand, is languishing in the ninth place out of ten, while Sauber, set to rebrand as Audi in 2026, is positioned last in the standings.
Gasly's Vision for Alpine
Gasly remains optimistic about Alpine's potential. "At the end of the day, it's not up to me. I welcome the fastest guy out there. We all know who it is. But then, yeah, I mean, at the moment, we've got to wait. But yeah, the team has three good options," he stated, underlining his faith in the team's decision-making process and the quality of drivers available.
The moves and countermoves in the world of Formula 1 never fail to captivate, and the coming weeks promise to bring more clarity and perhaps more surprises. As teams finalize their lineups for the next season, the transition phase for Alpine could prove to be a pivotal moment in their quest for resurgence.