The AlphaTauri driver on mental health, being dropped by Red Bull and how the death of his friend Anthoine Hubert changed him
For Pierre Gasly seizing the moment is more than a mantra; it informs his every move, embraced as philosophy and lifestyle come what may. There is a palpable joie de vivre to this singular, intriguing French driver whose Formula One career has been informed by dreadful tragedy and professional travails that would have floored lesser men. And on the eve of his home grand prix this weekend Gasly is in his best form yet, exhibiting a passion that enriches the sport.
The 25-year-old AlphaTauri driver is pleasingly honest in a sport where spin and secrecy are ubiquitous and where the art of the anodyne response is part of a driver’s training. Gasly has endured enough to feel he need not be anything but himself. In 2019 he was dropped unceremoniously by Red Bull mid-season and then at his first meeting afterwards lost his close friend Anthoine Hubert, whom he had known since he was seven, after a crash in an F2 race at Spa.
Related: Lewis Hamilton denies feeling pressure from Verstappen despite Baku blunder