Alpine face 'tight' battle to repair Gasly fire damage

Alpine has conceded it faces a 'tight' battle to complete repairs on Pierre Gasly's A523.

The Frenchman's Alpine caught fire following a loss of hydraulic pressure 15 minutes into the sole practice session of the Baku weekend.

With the Sprint format in effect for the first time this season, this problem carries the added penalty that there is no further action prior to qualifying.

As a precaution, Alpine held Esteban Ocon in the garage as well, meaning both drivers lost 45 minutes of practice.

Providing an update on progress ahead of qualifying, Alpine said: "Pierre’s car was returned to the garage at approximately 15:00 local time.

"We can confirm that the chassis is intact and the team are working exceptionally hard to replace the gearbox and power unit.

"It will be tight, but we are aiming to be ready for Qualifying."

UPDATE:

Pierre’s car was returned to the garage at approximately 15:00 local time.

We can confirm that the chassis is intact and the team are working exceptionally hard to replace the gearbox and power unit.

It will be tight, but we are aiming to be ready for Qualifying.

— BWT Alpine F1 Team (@AlpineF1Team) April 28, 2023

With qualifying taking place on Friday, Saturday becomes its own standalone Sprint event. Unlike last year, this will have no bearing on Sunday's grid.

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Carlos Sainz confirms contract talks as F1 star admits he’s unsure over Williams future

• 40 minutes ago

F1 boss calls for 48-race season

• 1 hour ago

F1 News Today: Max Verstappen future to be announced as Fernando Alonso signing priority outlined

• 1 hour ago

Sky Sports star reveals emotional Lewis Hamilton goodbye before shock F1 exit

• 2 hours ago

Driver suffers horror 190mph crash after taking off like a plane at former F1 track

• Today 14:00

Max Verstappen shares team pride after breakthrough win

• Today 13:15