Pierre Gasly’s Toro Rosso stint draws to a close this weekend in Abu Dhabi. 

“It is a special weekend for many reasons, it mainly reminds me of my GP2 title victory with Prema back in 2016. I am going to miss the Italian family spirit of Toro Rosso, as I am a very emotional person myself. Perhaps Red Bull is slightly different under this point of view."

The fight in the constructors’ is still on and Toro Rosso is looking forward to finish on a high, despite the fact that Sauber has been competitive, especially in the past 2 races. Compared to Brazil, Gasly hopes believes the night race in Abu Dhabi will be easier as there won’t be any blistering. "The team managed to reach Q3 at Interlagos, which was very unexpected but we made it happen. To be fair it will be more out of reach this weekend, but no tyre struggles are expected".

Gasly will continue to work with Honda next year. Therefore, he holds a strong advantage, knowing what it is like to work alongside the Japanese manufacturer. "They know what to expect from me in terms of feedback, how I want issues to be sorted. They are people to whom you have to show respect, in order to build confidence.” 

Pierre also paid hommage to Fernando Alonso, ahead of his last race in F1. "When I first started in karting he became world champion. It was 2005. I have always looked at him as an F1 legend and a fantastic example. It feels strange to see him go, as he was a very strong character, who brought plenty of spicy moments that we are going to miss”.