After causing an accident with his teammate Pierre Gasly during the Monaco Grand Prix, Alpine team director Bruno Famin issued a warning that there would be consequences. True to his word, it was announced on Monday that Gasly’s contract would not be renewed.
To make matters worse, Gasly will face further repercussions for his mistake at the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix. The stewards imposed a five-grid penalty on him, holding him responsible for the collision that sent his car airborne and out of the race.
This incident marks the lowest point of a challenging season for the Renault-owned team. They have only managed to accumulate two points so far, placing them ninth in the standings, second to last.
“We have been discussing with the team for several months,” Gasly commented on the possibility of extending his contract. “This team does not make decisions based on just one race.”
“We have mutually agreed to go our separate ways when the contract expires,” he continued. “I have spent a significant amount of time with this team, which is a considerable duration in the world of Formula 1.”
Gasly emphasized the amicable nature of the decision, stating that after five years with Alpine, he is looking forward to embracing new challenges. However, he did not provide details on what those challenges might be.
With 16 races remaining this year, Gasly will have ample opportunity to showcase his skills. Meanwhile, Alpine is already exploring possible replacements, such as Australian reserve driver Jack Doohan, who will take over Gasly’s car in the first Friday practice session.
Alpine has not yet made a decision on Gasly’s future with the team, as his contract expires at the end of the season.
One possibility is that Gasly will stay at Alpine. If that is the case, he expressed no sadness about the end of his tense relationship with Gasly.
“Our history spans a long period and I believe that, in the last year and a half, we have managed to work together and cooperate in a highly professional manner,” said Gasly.
“Given the circumstances, it was not always easy, considering we are both extremely competitive drivers. However, considering our history, I believe it was a positive experience,” he concluded. (Reporting by Steve Keating)
