Gasly reflects on Red Bull demotion: 'It almost felt like a relief'

Pierre Gasly has described his demotion from Red Bull Racing in 2019 as "almost a relief," citing a lack of support and the right tools to perform as key reasons for his struggles during his short-lived stint with the top team.

Why it matters:

Gasly's candid reflection sheds light on the immense pressure and challenging environment drivers can face when promoted to a top team, especially one with a clear number-one driver focus. His subsequent success after returning to the junior team underscores how team dynamics and support structures are as critical to performance as raw driving talent.

The details:

• Gasly's promotion to Red Bull for the 2019 season lasted just 12 races, with a best finish of fourth, before he was replaced by Alexander Albon during the summer break.
• He described a "strange dynamic" within the team, pointing to a lack of experienced support. He was paired with a race engineer new to Formula 1 from Formula E, while the team was firmly built around supporting Max Verstappen.
• "I wasn't really given the tools to really perform," Gasly stated. "They were not happy, but I'm not happy too because I could see I couldn't show my potential."
• The constant negativity and questioning surrounding his performance at the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix, where the swap was announced, created an environment he simply wanted to escape. "It's a lot of negativity. I go through that. I just want to drive," he recalled.

What happened next:

The move back to Toro Rosso (now Visa Cash App RB) proved transformative. Freed from the intense spotlight and pressure of the senior team, Gasly immediately rediscovered his form. He scored a sensational podium at the 2019 Brazilian Grand Prix and famously secured his maiden Formula 1 victory at the 2020 Italian Grand Prix, cementing his reputation as a top-tier driver.

The big picture:

Gasly's experience highlights the double-edged sword of Red Bull's driver development program. While it provides a coveted path to a top seat, the pressure to immediately perform alongside a generational talent like Verstappen has proven difficult for many, including Gasly and Alex Albon. His story is a testament to resilience, showing that a step back can sometimes be the best path forward for a driver's career and confidence.