Pierre Gasly: ​​“I was in shock”

Yesterday early evening, Red Bull Racing lifted the little suspense that remained over the identity of its second driver for 2019, with confirmation of Pierre Gasly to support Max Verstappen on the future car powered by the Honda V6 turbo/hybrid unit.

The Frenchman, 2 GP2016 Series champion, had started this season at Toro Rosso as part of his progression within the Red Bull Junior program. Notably the author of a fourth place in Bahrain, the Norman seems to have met the expectations of his employer before being promoted to replace Daniel Ricciardo, set out to take up the challenge Renault Sport F1 team.

“Dr Marko first called me to tell me that Daniel was leaving for Renault and that they would make their decision on the 2019 driver at a later date, confesses gasly. He told me to just enjoy the summer vacation and that there was no rush.

I came back to the south of France from Greece with my friends last week and he called me back. He said "just to let you know we've made our decision and we'd like you to be by Max's side in 2019."

When Helmut started calling me, I was in my underwear… When the call ended, I ran around the house screaming to my friends and they all jumped into the pool.

There was so much excitement and I was so happy because it's something I've wanted for a long time. Of course, when I came into the Red Bull Junior program, that was the goal, to drive in Formula 1 for this team.

There were also a lot of emotions and I was so in shock. I didn't really know what I was saying to my classmates, so I jumped in the pool and celebrated with my friends and family. It was even more special to be with them because we really only get to spend one week a year together. We try to see each other every year, but with the Formula 1 calendar it is difficult to see them. »

Pierre Gasly also highlights his progress within the Red Bull development program, which also saw him go through Super Formula in Japan last year, narrowly missing out on the title.

“It’s been five years since I joined the Red Bull junior team in 2013 and I have been close to the Milton Keynes factory for many years. I worked in the simulator with the engineers and started to form strong bonds with everyone.

When I compare myself to the first time I entered the program, I have improved a lot mentally because this aspect is essential. I've always had pressure since I was young and I've always fought every season to make sure I can continue the following year. So the program helped me a lot to be able to develop myself. »