Formula 1 is known for the many rivalries that formed through the years with Senna-Prost and Hamilton-Rosberg that left bridges burned and friendships ruined. However, as it continues to build new relations and burn some, Pierre Gasly has made up his mind that he neither sees a healthy rivalry nor a friendship blossoming with Esteban Ocon anytime soon.
While the two Alpine drivers have stuck by each other’s side this season, it seems they aren’t as interested in each other’s personal lives off the tracks. Until now, the two have avoided each other’s presence as best as they can and focused only on being a team rather than having a good relationship.
Although Alpine had a rather good season with a P6 end to their Constructors Championship far ahead of Williams they have a few things they worry could become a major issue in the future considering the rocky relationship between their two drivers.
Pierre Gasly denies having any bond with Esteban Ocon
After driving alongside the two-time champion, Fernando Alonso, Ocon soon saw a newcomer, Pierre Gasly join him for 2023. However, it certainly was not the best season for Alpine and their drivers as the two joined drivers at the very bottom of the championship list. Nonetheless, the duo hoped to work together as a team to get the team as much of a better result as they possibly could.
While the Frenchmen have stirred clear of each other this entire season, one of the many times that the two showcased their dislike towards each other was when Gasly was seen fuming on the onboard camera after their race in Suzuka.
Gasly: I don’t need that either. I need an Esteban who will work as hard as possible for the team. That’s enough for me.#AMuS
— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) December 23, 2023
It was after the team’s orders asking Gasly to let Ocon through while he was about to finish the race ahead of his teammate when he unleashed all his frustrations on the radio. That marked one of the first times that the two had no intentions of being friends. And as the 2023 season comes to an end, Gasly has confirmed that he has nothing to do with him other than racing.
He said, “It is the story of our lives that stands between us. The collaboration works well because we both want to win. This is only possible if you work as a team and with the team. On a personal level, there is no relationship between us. I don’t need that either. I need an Esteban who will work as hard as possible for the team. That’s enough for me.”
After making it clear that he has no plans of sitting down with Ocon for a long friendly conversation, it is only worth noting that the 2024 season will be just as interesting.
Pierre Gasly receives a Golden Wheel award
It is known for drivers to receive awards for their performance in the sport and soon it was Pierre Gasly’s turn to be awarded for his incredible work in 2016. He was presented the Golden Wheel Award commonly known as the Volant d’Or Award.
on a real note i’m so proud of him for doing great things. congrats on your award @PierreGASLY. so well deserved and many more to come 💙 pic.twitter.com/xqojLlnfrO
— shifa¹⁰ (@playboygasly) December 20, 2023
The Volant d’Or is an award given to drivers all across motorsports based on their discipline and is considered a grand award. Mostly conducted as a French award ceremony that invites junior drivers and F1 drivers to reward them for their hard work.
