Pierre Gasly, the Alpine F1 driver, is expressing optimism about his potential to capture the Formula 1 drivers’ championship in the future, specifically targeting the title for 2026. However, he is not setting his sights on immediate success this season. The 29-year-old believes that the forthcoming regulatory changes, which the FIA announced in June, will reshape the competitive landscape. These new regulations aim to make the sport more agile, sustainable, and safe, with a focus on lighter cars and enhanced battery and aerodynamic technologies, including moveable wings.
Gasly is enthusiastic about the upcoming changes. He aims to leverage the updated regulations to bolster Alpine’s performance and hopes the team prioritises developing a stronger car for the 2025 season, which could position them favourably for the championship in 2026. He acknowledges a willingness to forgo personal achievements this year if it’s conducive to securing a better chance at glory down the line.
“I’m very interested in what’s happening next year because in 2026, I could be world champion,” Gasly stated during an interview. He emphasised a shared focus between him and the team on the long-term strategy, hinting that immediate standings are less significant compared to future competitiveness.
Currently, in his early season performance, Gasly finds himself in 16th place in the drivers’ standings, having not scored points in Australia and facing disqualification in China. Meanwhile, Lando Norris from McLaren leads the standings, followed closely by reigning champion Max Verstappen and Australia’s own Oscar Piastri in fourth place.
As Gasly continues to navigate the challenges of the current season, his gaze is firmly set on the horizon, optimistic about the 2026 title and more significant achievements with Alpine. He believes that an investment in next year’s car development could yield dividends, allowing him and the team to fight for wins and podiums in the near future.