Pierre Gasly makes staggering Alpine claim after shock Max Verstappen links

Pierre Gasly has reiterated a staggering claim that he can become "world champion" at Alpine next season, when the new power unit regulations are introduced. 

The Frenchman previously revealed that he believes the new regulations will create some huge opportunities for himself and the team, who will become a customer Mercedes outfit. 

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher also expects big things from Alpine and has tipped the Enstone-based team as a potential option for Max Verstappen. 

Schumacher has recognised Gasly's impressive performances, what the team has for the future but also the impact and presence of Flavio Briatore, resulting in his belief that it could sign the reigning world champion. 

Gasly does not doubt Alpine's chances in 2026 and remains confident he could claim the drivers' title. 

"I've said next year I can be world champion," Gasly told select media including RacingNews365. "So yeah, I believe Alpine has got what it takes to fight at the front of the grid."

The 29-year-old enters this weekend's Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on the back of an impressive display in Bahrain, which saw him qualify in fifth, start in fourth and finish in seventh. 

It marked his first top 10 finish of the season, although he suspects that the Jeddah Corniche Circuit could be an obstacle for Alpine.

"We know it's a track where potentially things could be a bit more tricky and a bit more difficult for us, but then at the same time, we know what we are fighting with," added Gasly. 

"This is what we've got, and we've got to go and fight with what we have. On paper, we know this track is quite sensitive to it [energy management], but now it's up to us to try to be as competitive as we can, and hopefully can still make something out of this weekend."