Alpine Celebrates Historic Double Podium at Interlagos
Alpine Celebrates Historic Double Podium at Interlagos
In an electrifying showcase of talent and perseverance, Alpine secured its first double podium finish since its transformation from Renault in 2017, further cementing its place in Formula 1 history with a stunning performance at the Interlagos circuit in Brazil.
Amidst the roar of engines and the blurring speed of the race cars, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly emerged with triumph etched on their faces, securing second and third place respectively, behind the indomitable Max Verstappen. This remarkable finish not only elevated Alpine from ninth to sixth in the constructors’ championship standings but also brought potential financial gains worth an additional $50 million—a significant boost for the team’s future endeavors.
Rising Through the Ranks
For Ocon and Gasly, this moment was more than just a professional milestone; it was the culmination of years of shared memories and mutual respect, forged long before their ascent to the world’s most prestigious motorsport competition. Their journey traces back to the innocent days of karting, where budding ambitions first took root.
"You remember [in karting] when we were driving in the rain?" Ocon reminisced, a glint of nostalgia in his eyes. Gasly responded with warmth, "Even in the snow! Same in the days when we were the only ones showing up at the track. But it's all worth it."
Their shared path has seen them grow from fierce competitors on rough karting tracks to teammates on the global F1 stage. Their connection, rooted in shared experiences and challenges, was palpable on the Interlagos podium, where emotions ran high as they reflected on the improbability of their success. "As a kid, from where we came from, to end up as teammates was against all odds... but [also] to end up on the same podium on a season like this year. Because no-one thought we could have put a podium," Gasly expressed, capturing the incredulity of their achievement.
A Dream Fulfilled
The scene at Interlagos was both a personal victory and a testament to their enduring dream. For Ocon, the moment brought to mind their shared history and unexpected journey: "It paid off and I tell you when we did that formation, on the in-lap, that was the first thing that came into my mind. What a beautiful story that is."
The magnitude of this accomplishment was not lost on Gasly, who described it as "a moment of a lifetime." Their friendship and professional bond, seen by many but understood by few, took center stage amid the celebration. "For our story, nobody knows our story, it's something that is personal to us," Gasly shared, his words resonating with a rare sincerity that underscored their unique path.
Such camaraderie and fierce determination highlight the values that drive Alpine's success. The company now stands poised to optimize its position in the standings, bolstered by not only the financial incentives that come with this victory but also the renewed confidence and vigor that accompany such an achievement.
A Bright Future for Alpine
As Alpine continues to race forward, the partnership of Ocon and Gasly on the team serves as a beacon of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and teamwork. "But regardless of everything that happened, on a day like today it makes it very special and it's a beautiful story," Gasly concluded, reflecting the sentiments of everyone who has followed their journey.
While the future may hold many uncertainties, the moment at Interlagos stands as a clarion call to all aspiring racers—that dreams, no matter how improbable, are attainable with perseverance, hard work, and the right partnership. As Alpine celebrates this triumph, the team, along with Ocon and Gasly, can look forward with optimism and enthusiasm to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the world of Formula 1.
