In an unexpected and charming sporting crossover, Alpine Formula One driver Pierre Gasly has become the official sponsor of a tiny Sunday league football team based in Stratford-upon-Avon. The 30-year-old French racing star, who previously competed for Red Bull and currently drives for Alpine, has extended his support to Shottery United, a club that plays in Division Two of the Evesham & District Sunday Football League.
A Surprise Announcement on Social Media
The club broke the news to its modest following of 431 Instagram followers, posting: 'Shottery United FC are proud to announce its new kit, sponsored by Formula 1 Driver Pierre Gasly!' The message continued with gratitude: 'Thank you Pierre and his team for making this happen and for the continued support.' Fans reacted with astonishment in the comments, with one exclaiming 'Crazy!' and another questioning, 'How have you managed that one!'
Connections Through Alpine Team Members
According to reports from the Stratford Herald, Gasly's sponsorship stems from personal connections. Several members of the Alpine Formula One team play for Shottery United, making the club a local interest for the racing outfit. Sam Weaver, who co-runs the club, explained: 'Alpine are our local Formula One team and a few of our lads work there in various roles. Pierre loves his football and he decided to sponsor us, so we managed to place his name on our new kit.'
Gasly's Active Involvement and Support
Beyond just financial backing, Gasly is reportedly actively engaged with the team. He sends video messages and voice notes to offer encouragement and plans to attend a match in person when his busy F1 schedule allows. This personal touch adds a unique dimension to the sponsorship, highlighting Gasly's genuine passion for football.
Shottery United's Current Season Performance
On the pitch, Shottery United is having a mid-table season in their division. They currently sit eighth out of 12 teams, having secured four wins from 11 matches played. With games in hand, the team hopes to climb the league standings as the season progresses, potentially with Gasly cheering them on from the sidelines.
Gasly's Formula One Season Context
Meanwhile, in his primary career, Gasly is competing in the 2024 Formula One season with Alpine. He achieved a season-high finish of sixth at the Chinese Grand Prix and is set to start from seventh position at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. This sponsorship showcases his interests beyond the racetrack, blending high-speed motorsport with grassroots football.
The sponsorship deal between a global F1 star and a small Sunday league team underscores the unpredictable and heartwarming nature of sports partnerships, bringing elite-level support to community-level athletics.
