Pierre Gasly issued a stark assessment of Alpine’s preparation for the 2025 Formula 1 season, stating that the team is currently in a worse position than they were in 2024. Gasly’s comments come as rumors circulate about Christian Horner possibly taking over the reins at Alpine following Red Bull’s recent leadership changes.
After 12 races and two Sprint events in the 2024 season, Alpine sits 10th in the Constructors’ Championship with 19 points—a disappointing start for a team traditionally based in Enstone. Gasly has been the only driver to contribute to Alpine’s point tally this season, while rookie Jack Doohan has yet to earn points for the team.
The most notable recent result came at the British Grand Prix, where Gasly finished sixth, securing eight crucial points. Prior to this, Alpine had accumulated only 11 points across the previous 11 races and two sprints. Reflecting on his team’s performance, Gasly shared his candid view:
“I think last year we, overall performance related, relatively to the others, was in a much better place – considering the car was in a better place, we were on the podium – it was incredible.”
—Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
He also addressed the outcome at Silverstone:
“But this year, I feel we are in a worse place. The others have a better package, and that P6 is probably as good.”
—Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
At the British Grand Prix, Gasly started the race from eighth on the grid and gained two positions by the finish line. The victory was claimed by Lando Norris, who crossed ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri, marking Red Bull’s fifth one-two finish of the season. Nico Hulkenberg secured the final spot on the podium.
Flavio Briatore’s Social Media Message Sparks Speculation Over Christian Horner’s Future at Alpine
The question of leadership at Alpine has gained intensity following a social media post from the team’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, who praised Christian Horner shortly after his exit from Red Bull Racing. Briatore’s message highlighted Horner’s two decades of accomplishment in Formula 1, fueling talk of a possible Horner appointment at Alpine.
“20 years at the top says it all. A competitor on the track but also a friend off track. Well done on your achievements @christianhorner at @redbullracing and wishing you all the best on your next adventure. Forza Christian!”
—Flavio Briatore, Alpine executive advisor
Alpine has been without a permanent team principal since Oliver Oakes left the role several months ago. Meanwhile, Horner has no formal ties to any other F1 outfit as he completes his gardening leave. These factors make the prospect of Horner assuming leadership at Alpine alongside Pierre Gasly ever more plausible.
Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull ended his 20-year tenure amid a challenging period for the team, where lead drivers Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda managed only two wins out of the last 14 races. Horner was swiftly replaced by Laurent Mekies, previously the head of Racing Bulls at Red Bull.
The future direction of Alpine appears uncertain, but if Horner does take charge, it could signal a strategic shift aimed at reviving the Enstone team’s competitiveness, offering renewed hope for Pierre Gasly and the squad’s prospects in upcoming seasons.