Pierre Gasly knew that Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari had been discussing together for a long time
The transfer of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari continues to surprise the world of Formula 1. Pierre Gasly has revealed that he had heard about these discussions, which had remained secret for some time.
It’s the bombshell of the beginning of 2024. At the end of the season, Lewis Hamilton will commit to Ferrari for several seasons. The news surprised many, even within the paddock. After joining Mercedes in 2013, the British driver took the risk of embarking on one last challenge: becoming the most decorated driver in the World Championship, in the team with the most titles but struggling since 2008.
During the launch ceremony of the A524, Pierre Gasly revealed that he understands the context and the choice of the 39-year-old driver. Obviously, he has been working at Mercedes for a long time, but I was aware of discussions with Ferrari, said the Frenchman. In the end, he is nearing the end of his career. So it was now or never. I think it has been kept secret for long enough. Obviously, it’s quite exciting with the driver market, and all of you who were talking about it (note: the journalists), which is normal. I’m sure everyone will follow this very closely.
The big loser of this transfer is Carlos Sainz Jr. The 29-year-old Spaniard is the driver that Ferrari will not keep, as Charles Leclerc has extended his contract. The context has not been ideal and the former Renault athlete was the first to announce his departure on his social media. The two-time Grand Prix winner will have to find a new team.
“I believe Carlos is an excellent driver, but Lewis is a fantastic driver, the best of all time,” analyzed the winner of the 2020 Italian Grand Prix. So, from that perspective, I think there was an opportunity on both sides. I believe that Ferrari and Lewis did it together. Obviously, this puts Carlos in a more delicate situation. It’s not easy.”
The objectives remain the same.
The year 2024 looks very eventful. Over half of the grid will be out of contract at the end of the next season. Two seats will be available at Mercedes and Red Bull (if things remain as they are), not to mention the two seats still not confirmed at Alpine. With this historic transfer, Lewis Hamilton has launched the hostilities. Pierre Gasly is aware of the tumultuous months ahead, but he remains focused on his performance on the track.
“The approach to every weekend is the same,” said the former AlphaTauri driver. “Whether there are places to gain or not, it doesn’t matter. You have to be smart in your racing approach and aggressive. Knowing what is at stake and maximizing the chances you have doesn’t really change. I think my goal in F1 has always been clear. I want to fight at the front. That’s why I joined Alpine. It hasn’t changed my approach to Formula 1. I just turned 28, basically at my peak. I know I have great years ahead of me, so nothing is going to change.”
With Esteban Ocon, the Norman will be out of contract with Alpine at the end of the 2024 championship.
