Formula 1: “Nine years waiting for this moment,” Pierre Gasly savors first pole position

Pierre Gasly screamed after crossing the line at Monza, having secured the first pole position of his Formula 1 career nine years after he began chasing the moment.

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After crossing the line, I screamed. I have no idea what I said and it probably made no sense, it was just pure joy.

The Frenchman said the result brought “pure joy” and left him extremely happy for his team. He had not expected to challenge for pole at the Italian Grand Prix. His initial target had simply been to reach the final qualifying session, but a strong performance through Q1 and Q2 changed his expectations.

After setting the third-fastest time on his first flying lap in Q3, Gasly realized he had a genuine chance. “I really have a chance to seize,” he told himself, before giving everything on his final attempt. He said the lap rewarded the work put in over the years, even though he did not expect it to produce pole.

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It has been nine years that I have been giving my maximum every weekend.

Monza holds particular significance for Gasly. He won his first Formula 1 race at the circuit in 2020, and now has his first pole there as well. Starting first will give him clear air into the opening chicane, but he acknowledged that the race would be long and that the cars behind could have stronger race pace.

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I really have a chance to seize.

“I’m in the best position, I start first with nobody in front of me,” Gasly said. His plan is straightforward: focus on his driving, give everything and remain at the front for as long as possible.

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My plan is to stay first for as long as possible.