Alpine will pair French duo Gasly and Ocon collectively within the F1 2023 driver line-up, after recruiting Gasly from AlphaTauri.
The pair had been childhood buddies of their karting days however had some private points that led to animosity as they labored their approach up the junior classes.
“I do know they wish to promote this story,” mentioned Gasly to Channel 4. “For me, it’s no secret that we’ve had our ups and downs in our relationship however he’s the man I’ve identified the longest, for 20 years.
“We grew up collectively and I feel we’ve cleared loads of mud since we arrived in F1. Issues are going effectively now and I don’t see any motive why they need to not go effectively now.
“On the finish of the day, it type of makes me snigger as a result of the media is admittedly specializing in this story and making an attempt to push it.
“Simply look down the pit lane, you’ve rivalries inside each group. An important factor is to have a wholesome one, so long as it doesn’t develop into poisonous.
“It’s not new to anybody that you’ve a rivalry inside a group, however you’ve each acquired to be mature sufficient and good sufficient to push the group ahead.
“In the case of the monitor everybody tries their greatest however have gotten to remain respectful. I see all of the articles and folks want to push on that story, however I’m probably not fearful for that.”
Can Alpine problem the massive three?
“It’s undoubtedly thrilling,” Gasly mentioned of his Alpine change. “It’s the primary time for me that I’ve fully modified environments.
“I’ve been at Crimson Bull my complete profession in F1. Now I’m fully leaving, closing this chapter, and beginning a brand new one with Alpine.
“Clearly I’m extraordinarily joyful, excited and likewise proud to affix the largest French producer. Seeing the progress they’ve had over the previous few years, I undoubtedly consider there are wonderful issues we will obtain collectively.
“They’ve had improbable drivers within the final couple of years, Carlos went there, Daniel went there and Fernando went there. You’ll be able to actually see they developed the group in the precise route.
“I can’t wait to affix forces with them, accomplice with Esteban and attempt to hold pushing that group ahead and take them to the subsequent stage.”
Requested what championship place he can be pleased with on the finish of his first season with Alpine, Gasly responded: “Primarily based on their outcomes this 12 months, I might say minimal high of the midfield. However hopefully we may be difficult for podiums.
“They’ve been the fourth strongest group on the grid this season. The following goal is the highest three, the massive three forward of us. I really consider its potential. They’ve made large progress during the last couple of years.
“They undoubtedly have some velocity and in the event that they make one other step on the automobile for subsequent season I consider we might undoubtedly be robust challengers for the highest 5 and high three.”
