Gasly reveals Hamilton trigger that sparked rival talks

Pierre Gasly has conceded Alpine's recent form was "in mind" during contract discussions, with results not being what he had hoped for.

The 28-year-old noted how Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari confirmation at the start of February prematurely started the driver market and triggered earlier-than-anticipated conversations throughout the paddock, a situation which meant he had to consider Alpine's performance during its early-season slump.

Whilst he is now locked in with Alpine until at least the end of 2026 after signing a new multi-year contract, the one-time grand prix winner conceded he signed with the team "to be at the top" of F1 - a far cry from the current situation at the French outfit, which has regressed considerably from the recent high-point of finishing fourth in the 2022 constructors' standings.

Gasly joined at the start of 2023, directly after it finished fifth in the championship. Along with outgoing team-mate Esteban Ocon, the team slipped one place lower in the constructors' standings last term.

"Contractually, you always need to have a look quite a long time in advance," Gasly told media, including RacingNews365, when asked about his Alpine contract extension.

"Obviously, when Lewis [Hamilton] announced at the start of the year, it triggered the whole market earlier than we would have anticipated.

"But, since Lewis' news, there were a lot of talks here and there - obviously always having in mind that I've signed with Alpine to be at the top, and it definitely hasn't been the results so far that I dreamed of with the team."

2026 was Gasly main consideration for Gasly

Despite recent improvements, Alpine has further regressed this season. However, Gasly remains optimistic the team can turn its run of form around.

The French driver highlighted how 2026 was the main priority when making his decision on whether to extend his stay, ultimately opting to explore the next generation of F1 together.

"I definitely believe there's huge potential," he said. "I've seen a lot of positive signs happening inside the team, not only at the track, but also back at the factory. 

"I also followed closely the development for 2026, which, to me, was the most important for my next contract because we start with new regulations. 

"And then yeah, it was a constant conversation, very open - and the team obviously showed from day one a lot of interest and the desire to work with me which is something very important to me. Working with people who are definitely pushing hard to get you, and want to get you on the project."