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Friday's Sprint Qualifying session set the stage for a promising weekend. While Esteban Ocon expressed some disappointment with his performance, Pierre Gasly was buoyed by a strong showing, securing a top-ten finish.
Esteban Ocon: "We cannot be pleased with our end result in Sprint Qualifying even if I felt good with my actual lap in SQ1. It was a clean lap, no mistakes, but it looks like we are lacking somewhere and we need to look into the reasons why and find some improvements for the rest of the weekend."
Pierre Gasly: "I’m delighted with today’s Sprint Qualifying result. It’s our third Q3 appearance in a row even if today is just for the Sprint. It was a strong Qualifying for us from the beginning. I have felt good in the car all day, which led into SQ1 where we managed to get through. From then, we put together some good laps, one after the other, building the pace up bit by bit. In the end, we are top of the midfield, which is a sign of improvement for us, so we can all be very happy with that."
Saturday's qualifying session was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. However, the Sprint Race provided an opportunity for both drivers to gain positions.
Esteban Ocon: "It was a pity this afternoon that Qualifying was postponed due to the weather conditions. We are all very grateful to the fans who came today and stayed this afternoon. It was sunny and hot this morning for the Sprint Race, where we were able to make some overtakes and gain some places. It was not enough for points but it was always going to be a tough ask starting so far back."
Pierre Gasly: "It was a very tough Sprint Race earlier today, more so than we expected with the high tyre degradation. In the end, we started seventh, finished seventh, which is our best result of the season and two very important points. Checo [Perez] was closing in at the end and we managed to hang on and be top of the midfield. We need a few more of these races, and end results, in our Championship battle and I’m pleased we’re back in the mix."
The race started under wet conditions, with George Russell taking the lead from pole position. However, as the rain intensified, the track became treacherous, leading to multiple incidents and safety car deployments. Alpine's strategy proved to be a masterstroke. Both Ocon and Gasly opted to stay out on track during the early red flag, gaining crucial track position.
When the race resumed, Ocon found himself leading the race, a remarkable achievement for the French team. While Max Verstappen eventually overtook him, Ocon held on to secure a well-deserved second place.
Gasly, who started the race from P13, made a series of impressive overtakes and benefited from the chaotic conditions. He climbed his way through the field, showcasing his skill and determination. A late-race battle with George Russell added to the excitement, with Gasly ultimately securing a podium finish in third place.
This double podium was a historic moment for Alpine, marking their best result in years. The Brazilian Grand Prix will be remembered as a race where Alpine defied expectations and wrote their names in the history books.
Esteban Ocon:"I’m very happy this afternoon and I really do not know if I’m in a dream or if it’s a reality! I’m so proud of the entire team. We scored an amazing number of points in one race weekend. Clearly after yesterday such a performance seemed impossible but when the conditions are difficult, we have seen that we can fight.
Pierre Gasly: "What an incredible day for the entire team. None of us could have imagined a double podium but we did it and I could not be prouder of everyone. We have had such a year. We have struggled at times, been at the back, and it’s been tough for everyone involved. No one has given up, though, and everyone has stayed focused and motivated and now we have two trophies in second and third place in São Paulo, which is just amazing."
Oliver Oakes, Team Principal: "What a way to end the triple-header with a double podium for the team. Even more so after the early alarm call this morning after the rain delay yesterday! Both drivers were faultless today in difficult conditions, not putting a wheel wrong all day."
Alpine's Double Podium Propels Them to Sixth in the Constructors' Championship
This historic achievement has catapulted Alpine up the constructors' standings. Before the Brazilian Grand Prix, the team was languishing in ninth place. However, with this double podium finish, they have surged ahead of Haas, RB, and Williams, securing a strong sixth position. The Brazilian Grand Prix will be remembered as a race where Alpine defied expectations and wrote their names in the history books.
