Ahead of the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix, Gasly was demoted back to junior team Toro Rosso with Alex Albon taking his place. Upon the shock mid-season announcement, Red Bull said in a press release, “The team will use the next nine races to evaluate Alex’s performance in order to make an informed decision as to who will drive alongside Max in 2020.” On the dropping of Gasly, Christian Horner said: "Pierre really needs to take some time out during the break, reflect, and take the lessons into the second part of the year. We desperately need him realising more of the potential of the car."