Pierre Gasly finally broke his personal record after nine years in Formula 1. The Alpine driver made history by claiming his first-ever pole position at the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday at the legendary Monza circuit.
The achievement feels sweeter as it comes at the same venue where he took his first victory in 2020. Moreover, this pole is the first for French manufacturer Alpine and the first for the Enstone team since Fernando Alonso's era in 2009.
Intense Battle in Monza Qualifying
Gasly impressed from Q1 onwards, consistently improving his lap times in every segment. On his decisive lap, he clocked 1 minute 21.786 seconds, edging out George Russell of Mercedes by a slim 0.080 seconds.
This success also cements his name as the 109th different pole-sitter in F1 history. The last time a new name topped the grid was when Kimi Antonelli did it in China earlier this season.
The Long Journey of the French Driver
For Gasly, this moment is the fruit of a long and hard effort. He admitted that he had been chasing the dream of a pole position for the past nine years. His feelings are mixed, especially after losing a podium in Monaco this season.
"It's amazing. An incredible qualifying from the first lap in Q1. I felt very good in the car and was trying to chip a little bit away every single session," Gasly said with sparking eyes.
"Nine years I've been trying to chase and get the opportunity to get a pole position. To win my first race at Monza and get my first pole at the same track, I think there is something special around here."
Read Also
Leclerc admits Mercedes' engine superiority and predicts Ferrari will struggle at Monza. Full analysis of the power deficit and its impact on the championship.
Hamilton unhappy with Ferrari role after Monza qualifying. 59-point gap is tough, Leclerc won't yield. Will the Scuderia set a hierarchy?
Fernando Alonso criticizes F1 regulations that have stripped Monza of its Tempio della Velocita status. Read the full analysis on Sportrik.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!