Las Vegas is the realm of gambling. It seems no coincidence that one of the most unpredictable qualifying sessions of the 2024 Formula 1 season took place on the Nevada street circuit. Until the last attempt, it was practically impossible to predict who would take pole position, even if, in the end, it was undeniably claimed by one of the main contenders, George Russell, who had been incredibly fast with his Mercedes since yesterday.
What was truly unexpected, however, was the outstanding performance of Pierre Gasly, who managed to place his Alpine in third position, between the two Ferraris of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, but more notably ahead of much more prestigious rivals such as the two McLaren drivers or the Red Bull of championship leader Max Verstappen.
After the stunning double podium in Brazil, aided by the arrival of rain, the Enstone team continues its magical streak with a starting position that could be crucial in the fight for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship, which they reclaimed thanks to the 35 points scored at Interlagos.
Even Pierre Gasly himself appeared incredulous about this great result: “We didn’t think we could reach the top three in qualifying, and it was an incredible lap on this track where you ‘flirt’ with the walls throughout the lap. So much adrenaline, so many emotions. I knew I had done a good lap when I crossed the finish line, but when they told me over the radio that we would start third tomorrow, I was truly overjoyed,” the Frenchman said in parc fermé, just after stepping out of his car.
At the end of Q2, there was a long wait to repair the barriers following a heavy crash by Franco Colapinto, who had completely destroyed his Williams. Maintaining focus, therefore, was essential for everyone, but it must be said that Pierre Gasly was among the best at doing so.
“I was freezing in the car, but we had to wait a long time before resuming for Q3. I had a good attempt, but it was the last one with new tires that really mattered: I nailed it, but the car was giving me an amazing feeling, and I have to say this is an incredible period for the team after the double podium in Brazil. We hope to stay there tomorrow too,” he concluded.
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