In the 18th spot in Bahrain, Pierre Gasly nevertheless believes he has “maximized the potential”
Dependent on a single-seater lacking performance, Pierre Gasly did not achieve any remarkable feat in this first Formula 1 Grand Prix of the season. He finished in 18th place after a very challenging weekend.
A catastrophic outcome in Bahrain
The negative impressions from the winter tests have been confirmed. Alpine is not keeping up with the pace. And Pierre Gasly paid the price right from qualifying with an undeniable result: last. Starting from the back of the grid, the Frenchman had nothing to lose in the race. A faint hope lay in adjustments that were said to be more effective in the race than in qualifying.
Gasly’s reaction to his race
On Canal Plus’s microphone, Pierre Gasly did not add anything more because the French team is aware of the work that needs to be done:
It reflects the performance of this weekend. We had a good race, we tried different things in terms of strategy. We maximized the potential.
He does regret the pit stops, however: We have to improve on the pit stops and unfortunately on my side today it costs me 10 seconds. It wouldn’t have given us points, but we know there is work to be done, investigations. I know the team is working hard on this to improve. The race itself was well executed, we just lack performance, unfortunately.
Not much to criticize in Frenchman’s driving, except that he finished behind Esteban Ocon, who was one place higher in qualifying and the race. Almost anecdotal when both drivers are competing at this level in the standings.
The rebound is not likely to be immediate, and Pierre Gasly will have to endure more challenging weekends ahead.