Pierre Gasly is satisfied with Alpine’s performance in Formula 1 pre-season testing, although he acknowledged that an old prediction of his about winning the title is unlikely to come true this season. During the activities held in Bahrain, the Frenchman finished in fifth position overall, being the best-placed outside the four main teams on the grid. Even so, Gasly believes that these teams will continue to be ahead at the start of the championship:
Read more F1: Leclerc comments on what wedding gift he would like to receive from Hamilton
“I think the four teams will be clearly ahead of us, the four best teams, and the goal will be to close that gap as quickly as possible throughout the year,” the driver stated. “But from what we saw in testing, it seems there are definitely four teams standing out, which should occupy the top eight positions for a good while.”
Despite this, he does not rule out the possibility of eventual surprises throughout the season. “Does that mean it’s impossible to go there and bother them a few times? I hope so, sooner or later. At the moment, I think, fairly and objectively, the first goal for the start of the year will be to stand out in the midfield.”
Expectations surrounding the French team are also linked to the profound changes in Formula 1 regulations for 2026. Among the changes, Alpine has stopped producing its own engines and will start using Mercedes power units this year. According to Gasly, this new scenario could create unexpected opportunities on the grid. “But in the long term, I think this just redistributes things with the entry into the new regulations and offers many opportunities, and we have seen in the past that, with this massive change, change of regulations, you can have some surprises.”
Read more Hamilton confirms that the sequel to «F1: The Movie» is already in production
The driver also commented on the team’s performance during the pre-season preparation. “I think we did well. Obviously, we could always have done better, like any other team, but I know there will be work to be done and, as I said, the starting point is one thing. I think the most important thing will be to ensure that we are developing faster than the others and in better ways.”
Last year, Gasly even suggested that the regulatory changes could pave the way for a world title fight. Questioned again about this possibility before the race in Melbourne, he responded humorously: “It’s not going to be for this year!” the Frenchman laughed.
Read more 2026 Australian GP: dates, times and where to watch F1 at Albert Park
