Alpine say they are looking to an "aggressive" programme of updates throughout the season as they seek to close the gap to the front. After three races of 2023, the French squad are sixth in the Constructors' Championship with just eight points – though this lowly total is partly explained by drivers Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon coming to grief after the chaotic final restart at the Australian Grand Prix. With a four-week gap between Australia and this weekend's Grand Prix in Azerbaijan, many teams have been concentrating on introducing updates and enlarging their inventories of spare parts. Technical Director Matt Harman noted that Alpine have several updates planned for the coming races, with five Grands Prix to follow over the next six weekends. "We are bringing a new floor to Baku, amongst some other aerodynamic and mechanical items," said Harman. "We then have a further development at the following race in Miami and something further for Imola after that. "This consistent thread will continue throughout the season with more upgrades planned at most events. "It’s important we keep this aggressive rate of development up if we are to keep moving forwards towards our performance expectations."
Alpine drivers keen to bounce back from Melbourne DNFs
Following Alpine's disappointing race in Melbourne, Ocon noted that the team were extra keen to react with a strong comeback in Baku. "Obviously, [the Australian Grand Prix] did not end well for us, but there were many positives to take from the weekend, and we are fully focused on bouncing back strongly in Baku," Ocon commented. "As a team, we've already been looking forward to Baku for a while now so we're all glad this new race week is finally here. "We need a positive weekend and aim to leave Baku with deserved points for the team." Gasly has had success in Baku in the recent past, finishing third and fifth in 2021 and 2022 respectively, with those results representing his best finishes of each season. The Frenchman noted that the often chaotic nature of races at Baku meant it was especially important to remain alert and take advantage of unusual situations. "Baku is an insane track. I love it there," said Gasly. "It's going to be all about staying alive and capitalising on any opportunities that might come up. "I've had past success in Baku from just keeping it clean and taking chances. You just never know in Baku – anything can happen!"
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