Aston Martin F1’s Lance Stroll returns for the Canadian GP as Andy Cowell addresses concerns over his recovery and fitness
Andy Cowell, Team Principal at Aston Martin F1, addressed the media today in Montreal and was notably asked about Lance Stroll’s health status.
The Canadian will be back behind the wheel after undergoing wrist surgery due to pain that prevented him from racing in Barcelona.
Cowell, however, chose not to elaborate too much, emphasizing the importance of respecting Lance Stroll’s medical confidentiality.
When asked whether Stroll’s issue was now resolved or if the Canadian was once again pushing himself not to miss his home race, he responded: “We must respect everyone’s medical confidentiality in situations like this.”
“I think you know that Lance is a determined driver. He was the most disappointed not to be able to race on Sunday in Barcelona, and he was the most determined of the entire team to make sure he would be here this weekend.”
Cowell confirmed that despite contingency plans being in place, such as reserve drivers Felipe Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne—both committed to Le Mans this weekend—the main goal was to ensure Stroll’s participation.
Shortly after his procedure, Stroll was back in the simulator as part of his usual preparation for a Grand Prix. He also went to Paul Ricard for a test in an older car to ensure there were no aftereffects.
“For every situation, we have different plans, but Plan A was effective from start to finish,” Cowell confirmed.
“Lance is here, he met with part of the race team yesterday, and we are very pleased with how the past two weeks have gone. But of course, we had planned things thoroughly and anticipated any unexpected events.”
“The dialogue has been very open, and I was very impressed with how committed Lance has been.”
“He went to the factory, worked on this year’s and next year’s cars, had lunch with Adrian [Newey], then went to Paul Ricard after using the simulator. So, the past few days have been very intense.”
“The simulator provided a very accurate representation of this year’s car, and the car he drove at Paul Ricard was an older model, so less representative.”
Cowell also dismissed suggestions that Aston Martin found itself in a difficult position in Barcelona, where Stroll retired after qualifying. Had he withdrawn before the final free practice, the team could have called in a replacement.
“We must respect the fact that all drivers are elite athletes, highly competitive. Their competitive nature drives them to want to race and to be part of the action.”
“I have immense admiration for all the drivers, and no one wants to miss a race. But when, for medical reasons, the situation becomes too difficult, it’s time to stop—and that was the case in Barcelona on Saturday.”
“But let’s stay positive and look ahead.”
