Amidst the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Pierre Gasly delivered a jaw-dropping performance to qualify third, stunning the paddock and fans alike. The Alpine driver’s achievement was met with widespread admiration, including from Max Verstappen, who personally congratulated his former teammate for the monumental result.
Gasly’s Remarkable Turnaround in a Tumultuous Season
Gasly’s 2024 campaign with Alpine has been a rollercoaster, plagued by early-season struggles as the A524 proved uncompetitive against midfield rivals. However, consistent development of the car throughout the season has allowed Gasly to claw back valuable points. His efforts culminated in a sensational lap that secured a front-row-adjacent starting position at one of F1’s most unpredictable circuits.
Gasly’s emotional reaction underscored the significance of his qualifying success:
“It’s unbelievable, we didn’t think we would be able to achieve a top three in quali. It was an incredible lap, a lot of adrenaline, a lot of excitement. I knew crossing the line it was a good lap, but when they told me it was top three I was so happy.”
Verstappen’s Praise for Gasly’s Performance
Despite Red Bull’s challenges in Las Vegas, Max Verstappen took a moment to recognize Gasly’s outstanding performance. Verstappen, who qualified fifth, shared his admiration for the Frenchman’s effort:
“I told Pierre [Gasly] already, ‘Well done!’ I mean, it’s an incredible result for him and the team, and it’s also going to be exciting to see them tomorrow, how it goes for them. He did great qualifying!”
The camaraderie between the two drivers, whose relationship has warmed in recent seasons, highlights Gasly’s growing respect among his peers.
The Challenge Ahead: Retaining P3 in the Race
While Gasly’s P3 starting position is a cause for celebration, the Alpine driver faces a daunting task on race day. The faster cars of Charles Leclerc, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris lurk behind, ready to pounce on any misstep. Gasly’s ability to defend his position will hinge on strategic brilliance, tire management, and perhaps a dash of luck in the chaotic Las Vegas GP.
Gasly acknowledged the excitement and challenge of holding his ground in the 50-lap showdown:
“We didn’t expect this result, but now we need to focus on converting it. It’s going to be a tough race, but we’ll give it everything we have.”
Verstappen’s Title Aspirations: One Step Away
Meanwhile, Verstappen’s P5 starting spot still positions him well to clinch his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship on Saturday. All the Dutchman needs to do is finish ahead of Lando Norris, his nearest rival, to secure the crown. Should he succeed, Verstappen would join legends like Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton as one of the few drivers to achieve four consecutive titles.
A Midfield Marvel and a Champion’s Milestone
Gasly’s top-three qualifying result serves as a beacon of hope for midfield teams, proving that even amidst a challenging season, moments of brilliance are achievable. As for Verstappen, the Las Vegas GP could mark another chapter in his dominant F1 legacy. Whether Gasly can hold onto his podium spot or Verstappen can seal his historic title, Saturday night promises a thrilling spectacle under the neon lights of Las Vegas.