AlphaTauri boss Franz Tost retires, Daniel Ricciardo and Pierre Gasly express gratitude

After an impressive 18-year tenure, Tost bid adieu at the 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, leaving behind a legacy that resonates through the careers of top-notch drivers like Sebastian Vettel, Max Verstappen, Daniel Ricciardo, and Pierre Gasly.

As Tost's final chapter unfolded, current drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Pierre Gasly took a moment to express their gratitude for the mentorship and guidance provided by the Austrian maestro throughout their careers. Reflecting on Tost's impact, Ricciardo remarked on the F1 site, "I'd say tremendously. I think for the team, he's been everything." Ricciardo recalled his early days with Tost at Toro Rosso, emphasizing how Tost's honest guidance helped him mature quickly in the demanding world of Formula 1.

Gasly, who secured his maiden F1 win with AlphaTauri in the 2020 Italian Grand Prix, shared insights into what made Tost an exceptional team boss. "He's played a huge part in my career. He's quite a unique character, he's got his own personality, but his love and passion for F1 and motorsport are pretty much unmatched," said Gasly. The French driver highlighted Tost's ability to instil self-reflection and objectivity, contributing significantly to his personal and professional growth.

Looking ahead, Tost's departure prompted organizational changes within AlphaTauri. Former Ferrari racing director Laurent Mekies stepped into Tost's shoes as team principal, while former FIA F1 executive director Peter Bayer assumed the role of CEO. These changes set the stage for a new era in the team's journey, adding an element of anticipation as the 2024 season looms on the horizon.

Formula 1 enthusiasts can't help but look forward to the upcoming season, with teams regrouping after a well-deserved break. The Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir is poised to host the official F1 pre-season testing from February 23 to 25, offering fans a tantalizing preview of what the new season holds. As teams strive for supremacy on the 5.412-kilometre track, the echoes of Franz Tost's influence will undoubtedly linger, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of Formula 1.

In bidding farewell to a Formula 1 maestro like Tost, the racing community not only acknowledge the end of an era but celebrate the indelible mark left by a leader whose passion and dedication shaped the destinies of many racing talents.

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