Gasly reflects on ‘rollercoaster of emotions’ 2019 F1 season

Pierre Gasly has opened up about his “rollercoaster” of a 2019 Formula 1 season, which he began at Red Bull and ended at Toro Rosso.

Having endured a difficult start to life at Red Bull, Gasly was replaced at the senior team by Alexander Albon at the Belgium Grand Prix and returned to the Toro Rosso fold to see out the remainder of the campaign.

The Frenchman rediscovered his form at Toro Rosso and managed six points finishes in the final nine races, including a maiden grand prix podium, having pipped Lewis Hamilton to second place in Brazil.

“Personally, after all the things that happened this year, it was like such a rollercoaster of emotions,” Gasly said.

“From frustration to anger, from one of the saddest times of my life in Spa with Anthoine [Hubert], and one of the best moments of my life two months later.

“It was really intense but I feel like I’ve grown up personally and also as a driver.”

Despite his improved results at Toro Rosso, Gasly does not feel he has been driving any differently. He hopes continuing his fine form into next season will lead to another opportunity with Red Bull in the future.

“On a personal level I don’t feel like I am performing better in Toro Rosso than I was at Red Bull,” he explained.

“But obviously there were many things that didn’t work in Red Bull. I know why it didn’t work and they know as well.

“There were things I could have done differently and for sure it was a lesson for me. I’m sure there are many things they would have differently as well, so I’m sure they have learnt a lot from this situation.

“It’s a bit frustrating to have gone through this. But now that’s the past and I’m focusing on the future. I’m still with Red Bull and I’m sure there will be other opportunities if I continue to perform as I do with Toro Rosso.”