According to Pierre Gasly, who blamed his former colleague Yuki Tsunoda for the accident that led him to lose the Monaco Grand Prix, Tsunoda moved when he was applying the brakes. Gasly claims that Tsunoda was the one who triggered the collision. The two drivers were running 17th and 18th when they collided at the chicane, which led in a severe crash. This occurred after the drivers had made early pit stops during the race.
Gasly Clarifies No Brakes Radio Message
Despite the broadcast capturing a dramatic no brakes radio message, Gasly later clarified: I had the brakes, he insisted. Yuki made a mistake before the tunnel, so I got very close to him.
Gasly Accuses Tsunoda of Moving Under Braking
Gasly explained his decision-making during the attempted overtake: “Every lap he was braking on the racing line on the right. This lap I was very close, so I decided to stay on the left.
Gasly Criticizes Tsunoda’s Driving Tactics
“For me, here, you've got to stick to your line. You can defend the position, but. I just thought, ‘he'll leave the space’, said Gasly, hinting a conversation with Tsunoda was likely to follow.
Tsunoda Responds to Gasly's Accusations
Tsunoda Denies Wrongdoing
When told of Gasly’s remarks, Tsunoda appeared surprised: What? I don't think I did anything wrong, said the Japanese driver, adding that he’d “do the same” again and believed he maintained a fair line.
Alpine's Challenging Weekend in Monaco
Poor Qualifying Results Compound Problems
Alpine endured its worst qualifying of the season, with Gasly in 18th and teammate Franco Colapinto last. Colapinto ultimately finished 13th in the race.
Gasly Attributes Struggles to Car Limitations
Gasly commented on the A525’s poor ride compliance: We also knew this track would always highlight some weaknesses of the car in terms of ride. We’re just lacking compliance at the moment.
Optimism Ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix
Expectations for Improvement in Barcelona
Looking ahead, Gasly is hopeful for a stronger performance at the Spanish GP, a track where Alpine excelled last year by getting both cars into Q3 and finishing in the points.