Pierre Gasly insists “nothing has changed” regarding his Formula 1 future as speculation linking him to Alpine intensifies.
Over the past week, the Frenchman has emerged as the main target to replace Fernando Alonso next year, regardless of the outcome of Alpine’s ongoing contract dispute with Oscar Piastri.
Then in Spa, Gasly was overheard talking to Charles Leclerc and George Russell on their way to the drivers’ parade, telling the two drivers: “I’m still working on the final details of the contract.”
Unsurprisingly, many thought that to be a reference to an Alpine contract, but on Thursday, he quickly denied it.
“If you guys have any idea of the subject we were talking about, you’ll probably laugh,” Gasly smiled. “I can guarantee you, it was nothing related to Formula 1.
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“It was about marriage or a wedding thing, you guys can figure out it wasn’t car-related.”
In the clip, Gasly’s claim is backed up as Russell is heard saying “married” before Pierre mentioned a contract.
Asked a more general question about his future, the 26-year-old replied: “I’m with AlphaTauri, giving my best to AlphaTauri.
“They gave me my first seat in Formula 1, they gave me my first victory. I don’t feel like commenting anything, and as long as I’ll drive for this team, I will always give my 110%.
“Everybody is aware of my contract situation. For now, nothing has changed.”
Behind the scenes might be a different story though as The Race reports a deal has been reached between Alpine and Red Bull to buy out Gasly from the final year of his contract.
The compensation for Red Bull could ironically come from McLaren, should the CRB rule in Alpine’s favour in the contract dispute over Piastri.
A decision in that case is due at any time.