Pierre Gasly Reveals Alpine Contract Wasn't 'No-Brainer,' Calls for Team Belief

Pierre Gasly has signed a multi-year extension with Alpine through 2028, but the Frenchman openly admits the decision was "far from a no-brainer," requiring careful consideration amidst the team's current struggles. Despite exploring other avenues, Gasly committed to Alpine, believing they possess all components to become competitive, provided they foster stronger self-belief within the team.

Why it matters:

Gasly's long-term commitment provides crucial stability for Alpine, currently last in the Constructors' Championship. His decision signals confidence in the team's future, particularly with the significant 2026 regulation overhaul and their transition to a Mercedes customer engine. This dedication is vital for the team's rebuilding efforts.

The Details:

• Gasly's new deal extends his tenure at Alpine until the end of the 2028 season; he initially joined the team in 2023.
• He candidly revealed that exploring other options was a "normal thing to do," given Alpine's current performance where he's scored all 20 of their 2025 points.
• 2026 Outlook: The upcoming season brings radical new chassis and engine regulations. Alpine will also transition from a works engine manufacturer to a Mercedes customer engine, a key factor in future performance expectations.
• Gasly views the contract as positive for both parties, providing clarity and demonstrating mutual commitment, noting he feels "in a much better place" with his working group.

Between the Lines:

• Gasly firmly believes Alpine already has "all the ingredients" needed to deliver a competitive car from 2026.
• He identifies the primary missing element not as technical capability, but as self-belief, arguing that a strong, collective conviction is essential to extract those final "hundredths and extra performance."
• This suggests an internal cultural shift or renewed confidence is as vital as technical prowess for Alpine's resurgence, highlighting the mental aspect of their rebuild.

What's Next:

With Pierre Gasly's long-term future secured, Alpine can intensely focus on optimizing preparations for the radical 2026 rule changes. The Mercedes power unit transition and a complete overhaul of car design present a genuine opportunity for a comprehensive reset. Gasly's powerful call for belief underscores that unlocking the team's full potential will require both cutting-edge technical innovation and a robust, collective mindset. If successful, Alpine could indeed surprise the grid and improve their standing in Formula 1.