Lance Stroll Makes GT3 Debut at Circuit Paul Ricard
Aston Martin Formula 1 driver Lance Stroll is set to enter the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup with his debut race scheduled for this weekend at Circuit Paul Ricard, France. Stroll will pilot the #18 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo alongside teammates Roberto Merhi and Mari Boya as they take advantage of a five-week break in the 2026 F1 calendar.
Stroll’s entry comes under the auspices of Comtoyou Racing, a reputable squad known for its past successes, including victory at the 2024 24 Hours of Spa. Despite the team’s tight turnaround to prepare the car against a 59-car grid, their execution demonstrates solid logistical capabilities.
Reflecting on the quick decision to participate, Stroll stated, “The decision came when we were in Suzuka. We were talking about what we could do during this break… so it was an idea to do a GT race together.”
While new to GT racing, Stroll brings some sportscar experience, having competed in the 2016 and 2018 editions of the 24 Hours of Daytona. He expressed excitement about the change in racing dynamics provided by the Aston Martin GT3 car: “It’s different — less downforce, less power — but it moves more.”
This weekend’s competition comes at a critical junction for Stroll, with Aston Martin struggling in the F1 constructors’ championship. “In Formula 1, you don’t always have the opportunity to win,” he noted. “This is very competitive, but if everything comes together, winning is possible.”
Stroll also shared insights on the communal atmosphere, remarking on the less stringent media obligations and greater focus on teamwork and setup adjustments which he finds enjoyable.
Additionally, Stroll sought advice from fellow F1 driver Max Verstappen, who has previously engaged in GT racing, as he prepared for this foray. “We talked about who to contact, and since he’s already involved in GT racing, we discussed it a bit,” he explained.
After a challenging opening day where the #18 Aston Martin required recovery during practice, the team concluded the session with promising speed, finishing only 0.586 seconds off the fastest lap. With Stroll expressing interest in participating in future GT3 events this season, his performance this weekend will be pivotal for both personal growth and the team’s ambitions.
As the race approaches, the combination of Stroll’s experience and Comtoyou Racing’s track record positions them as potential contenders in the six-hour endurance race.
Images courtesy of SRO/JEP
