Pierre Gasly criticized Alpine’s current form as the team heads into the 2025 season, declaring that they are performing worse than they did in 2024. As the team’s most consistent driver this year, Gasly’s statement highlights growing concerns over the French outfit’s competitiveness amid speculation surrounding Christian Horner’s potential arrival.
Through 12 races and two Sprint events, Alpine sits 10th in the Constructors’ Championship with just 19 points, marking one of their weakest starts in recent memory. Gasly has been the sole points scorer, while rookie Jack Doohan has yet to deliver results that compensate for the team’s struggles.
Latest Results Emphasize Alpine’s Continuing Difficulties
The team’s strongest finish came at the British Grand Prix, where Gasly earned sixth place and added eight points. Before that, Alpine had accumulated only 11 points over the prior 11 races and Sprint sessions combined. Gasly reflected on Alpine’s performance compared to last year:
“I think last year we, overall performance related, relatively to the others, was in a much better place – considering the car was in a better place, we were on the podium – it was incredible.” —Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
Regarding his Silverstone race, Gasly commented further on Alpine’s current standing:
“But this year, I feel we are in a worse place. The others have a better package, and that P6 is probably as good.” —Pierre Gasly, Alpine driver
Gasly started the race in eighth position and managed to improve by two spots by the finish. Meanwhile, Lando Norris won the British GP, ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri, securing their fifth one-two finish of the season. Nico Hulkenberg completed the podium in third place.
Flavio Briatore’s Social Media Post Sparks Takeover Speculation Around Horner
Amid the team’s difficulties, Alpine’s executive advisor Flavio Briatore posted on social media praising Christian Horner following his recent exit from Red Bull. Briatore applauded Horner’s two decades of leadership and expressed well wishes for his future endeavors:
“20 years at the top says it all. A competitor on the track but also a friend off track. Well done on your achievements @christianhorner at @redbullracing and wishing you all the best on your next adventure. Forza Christian!” —Flavio Briatore, Alpine executive advisor
This message ignited rumors about Horner possibly taking over at Alpine, especially since the team has not appointed a permanent principal after Oliver Oakes left a few months ago. Horner currently lacks ties to any other team, making a return to Alpine a plausible next step once his gardening leave from Red Bull concludes.
Context Behind Horner’s Departure and Alpine’s Leadership Void
Christian Horner was relieved of his duties at Red Bull after 20 years, a decision influenced by the team’s subpar performance this season. Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda, key drivers in the Red Bull lineup, won only two of the last 14 races, leading to pressure on the team’s management. Following Horner’s exit, Laurent Mekies, previously heading Racing Bulls, was appointed as his replacement.
As Alpine faces mounting challenges on the track, the prospect of Horner stepping in offers the team a potential shift in direction. Working alongside Pierre Gasly, whom Horner once supported as a driver, could revitalize Alpine’s campaign in upcoming seasons.
