Gasly, who is good friends with Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc and is in regular contact with Hamilton, says that the bombshell Formula 1 news of the seven-time champion’s switch to Maranello did not catch him completely by surprise.
Speaking at the launch of Alpine’s 2024 car at its Enstone factory on Tuesday, Gasly said it was his understanding that things had been bubbling away for quite some time.
“Obviously, he's been a long time with Mercedes, but I was aware of some talks with Ferrari,” said Gasly.
“Ultimately, he's towards the end of his career. So it was either now or never.
“I think it was kept secret for quite a long time. I just wish him the best.
“Obviously, it's sort of exciting with the driver market, and all of you guys come with it, which is normal.
“But I think ultimately, for the sport, he is the most successful driver of all time joining a new project, a new challenge. I'm sure everybody will follow that very closely.”
Gasly admitted that the Hamilton signing was not great news for Carlos Sainz, but said it was understandable what Ferrari had done.
Source: Autosport