Alpine Triumphs in Brazil with a Stunning Double Podium Finish
At the famed Interlagos circuit in Brazil, Alpine Racing pulled off a remarkable feat by landing both its drivers on the podium for the first time since it transformed from Renault in 2017. Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, once rivals on karting tracks, found themselves standing united on the Brazilian podium, marking a significant milestone for Alpine with their second and third place finishes, respectively. The duo's achievement was overshadowed only by another commanding performance by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who claimed the victory.
A Leap in the Constructors' Standings
The success at Interlagos propelled Alpine up the constructors' championship standings from ninth to sixth. This shift is not merely a testament to their tenacity on the track but holds substantial financial implications. The elevation in ranking comes with potential prize money worth an additional $50 million, promising to strengthen Alpine's racing prospects further.
The Bonds Forged in Karting
Ocon and Gasly's shared journey is not just one of professional collaboration but also of personal rapport. Their bond was forged years ago on rain-soaked karting tracks. "You remember [in karting] when we were driving in the rain?" Ocon reminisced as he stood in the post-race euphoria. Gasly responded, "Even in the snow! Same in the days when we were the only ones showing up at the track. But it's all worth it."
This camaraderie was on full display as the duo reflected on their triumph in Brazil. For both, their journey to becoming teammates—and their simultaneous podium finishes—felt nothing short of remarkable. "It paid off, and I tell you when we did that formation, on the in-lap, that was the first thing that came into my mind. What a beautiful story that is," Ocon mused.
Defying the Odds
Their achievement defies the odds, reminiscent of childhood dreams shared on karting circuits. "As a kid, from where we came from, to end up as teammates was against all odds ... but [also] to end up on the same podium on a season like this year. Because no-one thought we could have put a podium. In the way we did it just incredible," Gasly said, encapsulating the wonder of their journey.
The duo understood the significance of their accomplishment, not just in terms of racing glory but as a testament to their shared history and relationship. "For our story, nobody knows our story, it's something that is personal to us," Gasly noted, acknowledging the deep personal satisfaction that accompanied their professional triumph.
A Moment to Cherish
The emotional resonance of their success was palpable, as Gasly captured the sentiment best, exclaiming, "This is a moment of a lifetime." The race in Brazil did not merely alter the statistical landscape of the constructors' championship but also underscored a narrative of perseverance and friendship.
Alpine's double podium marks a significant chapter in this motorsport season. As teams and fans alike take stock of what this means for the remainder of the season, the image of Ocon and Gasly celebrating their improbable yet triumphant finish remains a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration. Both drivers look forward to capitalizing on their success and continuing to defy expectations. But regardless of the future, for Ocon and Gasly, the race and the shared podium in Brazil affirmed a "beautiful story," as remarked by Gasly, of two friends making it against all odds.