Pierre Gasly has extended his well-wishes to Lewis Hamilton following the seven-time world champion’s remarkable late-career transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season.
This iconic move by the British racing legend has triggered a ripple effect in the driver market, unexpectedly freeing up a seat at the Silver Arrows for the upcoming year.
Hamilton had secured a fresh two-year contract extension with Mercedes last summer.
However, with the team struggling to narrow Red Bull’s advantage towards the end of the 2023 season, the 39-year-old made the daring decision to switch to Ferrari after spending 12 successful years with the Brackley-based outfit.
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Speaking to Sky Sports about Hamilton’s significant move while unveiling Alpine’s 2024 challenger, Gasly remarked, “I think it’s going to be interesting.
It’s evidently the most successful driver of our sport departing Mercedes after an extensive collaboration, arguably the most successful in our sport’s history.”
“So, it’s going to be intriguing, his move to Ferrari. It came as a bit of a shock, I suppose, to everyone. But certainly, I wish him the best.
He’s reaching the twilight of his career, and it was probably a case of now or never, and they both seized that opportunity with the team and himself. So yes, it’s going to be fascinating to follow that.”
With a vacancy now at Mercedes, Gasly will be closely monitoring the situation at Brackley.
Alongside his teammate Esteban Ocon, the French driver finds himself among the 13 competitors whose contracts expire at the conclusion of the upcoming 2024 campaign, granting him the freedom to explore options with other teams on the grid.
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“Obviously, I commenced with Alpine last year. I understand the project I’m involved in. My contract expires at the end of the year, and naturally, discussions are ongoing,” Gasly stated.
“I think the situation is fairly transparent, but for now, I’m focused on understanding the capabilities of this car. Ultimately, my aim is to compete at the forefront.
I believe it’s achievable with Alpine. At 28, with ample experience, I’m in my prime, and that’s what I’m striving for – to contend for victories, podiums, and be among the top performers.”