Pierre Gasly had his Monaco Grand Prix podium restored five days after the race in the Principality, following the cancellation of the two five-second penalties that had been added to his race time.
The case was complex and highly detailed, but Alpine deserves credit for believing in its position and bringing forward new evidence that ultimately overturned the original decision.
One of the most interesting aspects of the story was Gasly’s reaction during an interview with Canal+ after learning that he had officially regained third place.
Gasly’s reaction to Canal+
“I was in the hospitality area when the FIA decision was announced, so I was extremely happy. Of course, it’s quite unusual to celebrate a podium on the Friday of the following Grand Prix, but I think the right decision was made.
“A mistake was made during the weekend, and I want to say a huge thank you to the FIA and Formula 1 for reviewing the situation, for considering all the evidence, taking the circumstances into account and accepting the fact that an error had been made. Obviously, it had rather significant consequences, but everyone took responsibility, which is exactly how it should be.
“We know that at this level things are never simple, in any sport, so I think this demonstrates all the excellent work that has been done.
“This shows just how much transparency there is in Formula 1, and I am very proud of the team for everything it has done since Sunday evening. They worked incredibly hard. It is a third place in Monaco. I didn’t get to experience it in real time, but I know that I crossed the finish line in third place, and that makes me extremely happy.
“I’ve just gone to thank all the mechanics and all the engineers from the bottom of my heart for this performance.
“Unfortunately, we weren’t able to celebrate together in Monaco, so it’s true that this podium will always remain quite unique and special. My focus is already on this weekend. There has inevitably been a lot of excitement, a lot of disappointment since Sunday and plenty of emotions, but I am very satisfied with the decision that was made.
“Even yesterday I woke up at seven in the morning. I didn’t sleep very well because I desperately wanted this decision to be made. It was made, and it was the best decision that could have been taken.
“A podium in Monaco is something incredible. Ever since I was a child, it has been the Grand Prix, the historic and iconic Formula 1 race. We achieved it, and now I would love to know what it feels like to stand on the podium in Monaco, with the Prince and everything else that comes with it.
“But that’s okay, we’ll just have to do it again next time. They’ll give us the trophy somehow, although I don’t know exactly how.”
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