Felipe Drugovich Could Step in for Lance Stroll at Canadian Grand Prix
Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin’s reserve driver, has expressed his willingness to prioritize Formula 1 over his scheduled commitment to the Le Mans 24 Hours by potentially filling in for injured driver Lance Stroll during the Canadian Grand Prix. Stroll withdrew from the recent Spanish Grand Prix due to significant pain in his right hand and wrist, an injury sustained in a cycling accident earlier this year.
Under F1 regulations, Aston Martin could not substitute another driver for Stroll after his early exit from qualifying, where he placed 14th on the grid. Consequently, the team raced solely with Fernando Alonso, who finished ninth following a late penalty issued to Max Verstappen.
Stroll’s path to recovery from a recent procedure remains uncertain, raising questions about his availability for his home race in Montreal scheduled for June 13-15.
Drugovich, currently slated to race for the Cadillac Whelen team at Le Mans, indicated that he would be prepared to forgo that commitment to drive for Aston Martin. In an interview, he stated, “First of all, we have to wish Lance the best. For Le Mans, my priority has always been Formula 1.”
Aston Martin’s options are limited as both Drugovich and fellow reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne have conflicting commitments, with Vandoorne participating in the Le Mans Hypercar class. The team may consider engaging Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas, who is available for the Canadian GP.
As the situation develops, Aston Martin will need to navigate tight timelines and resource constraints in securing a competitive lineup for the upcoming race.
