In a stunning twist to the 2024 F1 season, Alpine’s surprise double podium finish at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix has catapulted the team into serious contention for a $50 million prize windfall. Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly’s masterful drives in a rain-soaked and dramatic race led them to second and third place, respectively, behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, marking a comeback that few could have foreseen.
This podium surge brought Alpine a crucial 33-point haul, propelling them from ninth to sixth in the Constructors’ Championship, bypassing Williams, Red Bull’s junior team, and Haas. They now sit three points ahead of Haas and five ahead of Red Bull Racing, with three Grands Prix and one remaining sprint race this season.
The podium sweep in Brazil could have long-lasting financial impacts for the French team, as finishing sixth in the constructors’ standings would grant them a slice of the massive $50 million pot split among the ten teams, according to sources cited by Reuters. Holding their ground could make Alpine one of the biggest beneficiaries of the season’s prize fund.
Rainy Sao Paulo: The Perfect Storm for Alpine’s Podium Moment
For Alpine, the Sao Paulo GP brought more than just points—it was a shot of confidence in an otherwise challenging season. Despite Alpine’s struggles with pace, Ocon and Gasly’s skillful handling of the changing weather allowed them to capitalize on their rivals’ missteps.
“What a day after such a tough season,” said Ocon, reflecting on his podium finish. “The car was incredibly challenging in dry conditions, but the rain was the great equalizer. I felt right at home.”
Teammate Pierre Gasly, who also clinched points with a seventh-place finish in Saturday’s sprint, shared in the excitement. “No one thought we’d be on the podium twice in one weekend,” he said. “This result was exactly the boost we needed after grinding through the year.”
A Turnaround Moment for Alpine Amid Tumultuous 2024 Season
Alpine’s breakthrough could not have come at a better time for the team, which had been grappling with its slowest start on the grid and a rocky transition under new team principal Oliver Oakes. Despite a rough season marked by technical challenges and a lack of pace, Oakes believes Alpine’s podium in Brazil reflects a shift in the team’s trajectory.
“We didn’t quite make it to Q3 in qualifying, which was disappointing,” Oakes admitted. “But with this result, we’ve more than made up for it. Since I arrived, I’ve seen an incredible spirit here. This success sets us up well for the winter—it’s exactly what we need to build momentum.”
Cash Stakes Higher Than Ever as Alpine Aims to Hold P6
While Alpine has taken a giant step forward, the battle is far from over. With Aston Martin still 37 points ahead in fifth, Alpine’s goal of a top-six finish means every race will be crucial as they defend against Haas and Red Bull’s junior team.
The Sao Paulo Grand Prix, meanwhile, stands as a defining moment in their season. The combined elements of skillful driving, timely strategy, and favorable conditions gave the French team an edge that could lead to a dramatic finish for the year—and possibly, the financial boost needed to support an even stronger 2025.
