Gasly excited for 'special' home race

Pierre Gasly is anticipating a 'special' home Grand Prix next weekend, as F1 returns to the Circuit Paul Ricard.

The track at Le Castellet returned to the F1 schedule last season, hosting the first French Grand Prix since 2008.

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Gasly's home race 12 months ago didn't go to plan after he retired on the opening lap following a collision with compatriot Esteban Ocon. This time around, Gasly says he is pushing to achieve the 'best result' he can.

"It’s a really special weekend coming for me, my home race, so I’m really excited to be on track there with all the fans and extra support," the Red Bull driver said. 

"I’m fully focused and dedicated to get the best result I can and it would be a special moment to do well in front of my home fans. Quite a lot of people are coming to support me which makes the weekend extra special.

"It brings good vibes and creates a special atmosphere. Paul Ricard is also a track I quite like because I had really strong results there in the past, I raced there for the first time in 2011 in F4 and won.

"To go back there this year with a Red Bull, in a competitive car, makes me excited and I’m ready to give it my all.”

Gasly has struggled with life at the energy drink so far following his promotion from Toro Rosso, replacing Daniel Ricciardo who left for Renault.

Last time out in Canada, Gasly struggled to come home in eighth place, behind the two Renaults, raising further questions over his future at the team.