Alpine stuns at Interlagos: brilliant strategy and double podium in Sao Paulo. Alpine pulled off a sensational double podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

In Formula 1, anything can happen when it rains, and today it did. Max Verstappen won the Brazilian Grand Prix starting from 17th, but perhaps the most surprising outcome was Alpine’s double podium with Esteban Ocon finishing second and Pierre Gasly in third.

The Alpine drivers had vastly different races. Ocon started in the Top 10, while Pierre Gasly began only 13th after a tough Q2. But what they shared was a race where the A524s showed excellent pace in the wet and executed a perfectly timed strategy.

The decision to delay their pit stops transformed the day for the Enstone team. After that, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly expertly managed their positions as the track grew drier with each lap.

“What a day, especially after such a challenging season,” said a stunned Esteban Ocon after the Brazilian Grand Prix. “The rain leveled the playing field, which was critical for us. We know that when it rains, the cars become much more alike, and today was more proof of that. I’m incredibly happy to be on the podium.”

“We didn’t prepare for a wet setup. The car struggled on the dry track, but as soon as it started raining, I felt really comfortable. I love racing in the rain here, and today was a special race for us.”

Pierre Gasly had shown strong form from the only free practice session at the Carlos Pace circuit, though qualifying did not go well.

The rain, pace, and decision to delay the pit stop all paid off. The arrival of the Safety Car and the red flag presented Alpine and Pierre Gasly with an incredible opportunity.

“It’s unbelievable. It’s been a very tough season for the whole team, but then we started scoring points, and we knew anything could happen here. I think no one would have bet on two Alpines on the podium, but it’s truly fantastic.”

“Yesterday, the pace wasn’t bad on dry ground. But this morning, qualifying was a disaster. I couldn’t get a clean lap in Q2 due to two incidents, and I had to start from 13th. Recovering to third place and having both cars on the podium is an amazing feeling. I’m proud of the team, which never gave up, even when things seemed the hardest. We scored a lot of points, and we should be proud today.”