'I could be world champion': Alpine's Pierre Gasly's bold sacrifice in bid to join 2026 world title fight
Alpine's Pierre Gasly is confident he has what it takes to win the F1 drivers' championship title, but he is not aiming for such success this season.
The 29-year-old has pitched himself as a contender for the 2026 world title as he looks to capitalise on the new set of regulations that are set to rock the field.
In June last year, the FIA unveiled an "agile, competitive, safer and more sustainable" update to the chassis and engine regulations that will be implemented next season.
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The new regulations will see cars up to 30 kilograms lighter take to the track, increased battery power and aerodynamic benefits such as moveable front and rear wings.
The revised regulations will not be the only change Gasly will learn to manage in the new year as he will also prepare to operate a vehicle that uses a Mercedes power unit.
Pierre Gasly leads Visa Cash App Racing Bulls' Isack Hadjar during the Sprint at the Chinese Grand Prix. Getty
Gasly said he is excited about the activation of the new regulations and hopes Alpine look to direct its resources to developing a stronger car next season.
The Frenchman insisted his is content with sacrificing his success this season if it means he will have a better shot at the world championship title in 2026.
"I'm very interested [in what's happening next year] because in 2026 I could be world champion," Gasly told RacingNews365.
"So that's something I'm putting a lot of focus on. Obviously, I'm fully dedicated and focused on 2025, but as a team, we know what's on the table this year.
Pierre Gasly celebrates on the podium at the F1 Grand Prix of Brazil in 2024. Getty
"We know what's on the table for 2026, so the strategy has already been put in place for the next year.
"As I mentioned at the F1 launch, if it were down to me, I would just put all the guys and all the money towards next year.
"Whether I finish eighth, ninth, sixth, seventeenth, it doesn't really matter. But if next year we can fight for wins and podiums, that's really meaningful."
Gasly currently sits 16th on the drivers standings after two races, having failed to accumulate points at the Australian Grand Prix before being disqualified in China.
McLaren's Lando Norris sits atop the standings followed by four-time reigning world champion Max Verstappen. Australia's Oscar Piastri is fourth.
