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Is this why Gasly is succeeding at AlphaTauri? "We've worked hard"

3 November 2020 at 13:25
Last update 3 November 2020 at 16:50
  • GPblog.com

Pierre Gasly has had an excellent year at AlphaTauri despite the recent disappointment at Imola. Technical director Jody Egginton has been discussing the reason for Gasly's success in the F1 Nation podcast, and why it may not have been possible at Red Bull.

Gasly had to make way for Alexander Albon at Red Bull last year after the summer break, despite the Frenchman only racing for them for half a season. Whilst Albon has struggled at Red Bull, Gasly has impressed for Alpha Tauri and even won at Monza.

Focus on the rear axle

At AlphaTauri, Gasly has to deal with Egginton as the technical man. According to Egginton, they have been working hard all year round on the rear axle of the car. "We have worked hard to get the stability of the rear axle into the car. That has allowed the drivers to push it and gain some confidence. The car has a reasonably functioning window, and our main focus in almost every race is the rear axle. and making it function properly."

The rear of the AT01 suits Gasly better than the car he drove at Red Bull last year. It gives the Frenchman more confidence, allowing the driver to get the most out of the car in greater comfort. According to Egginton, it is no coincidence that the car works so well, both on Gasly's side and with teammate Daniil Kvyat.

"We're just Constantly working on the car to try to really optimize everything. At every event we learn more and get a little more out of the car, and here [Imola] we have managed to make the car work really well on this track, in these temperatures and on both sides of the garage, which is really encouraging," concluded Egginton.