Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Formula 1, Fernando Alonso
Ryan Smart
Aston Martin have decided on their replacement plan for if Lance Stroll is unable to compete at the Canadian Grand Prix, it has been reported.
Stroll qualified in 14th place for last weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, but was forced to withdraw from the race on Saturday evening.
His team confirmed in a statement that he was suffering from discomfort in his wrist, which is believed to be linked to a cycling accident he suffered in 2023 which broke both his wrists.
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Aston Martin added that the Canadian would undergo surgery instead of taking part in the Grand Prix in Barcelona, and hoped to be ready in time to take part in his home race on June 15.
The Daily Mirror report that Stroll's surgery has been successful, and was performed by the same doctor who operated on him at the beginning of the 2023 season.
However, should he not recover in time for Montreal, Aston Martin have several options who could replace him.
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Their main reserve driver is Felipe Drugovich, who has never competed in an F1 Grand Prix.
The Brazilian is also due to drive in the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race, which clashes with the Canadian race.
However, F1 journalist Julianna Cerasoli reports that, if required, Drugovich would prioritise his F1 commitments over Le Mans.
Second reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne is in the same position due to his Le Mans commitments, though it is unclear if the former McLaren man would step back into the car.
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However, it is added that Drugovich's main dilemma could involve waiting until the last possible for Stroll to be declared fit - by which point he may have missed the deadline to compete in Le Mans. Cerasoli claims that Aston Martin will do everything to ensure such a scenario is avoided.
Should Aston Martin go down a different direction, Valtteri Bottas could be in line to replace Stroll.
The Finn is currently Mercedes' reserve driver, having left the Kick Sauber team at the end of last season.
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But as part of his Mercedes duties, Bottas is also a reserve driver for McLaren, Williams and Aston Martin, who are affiliated to the Silver Arrows through their power unit supplier agreements.
His relatively recent experience of driving an F1 car could, therefore, make him an ideal candidate - but a lot will depend on Stroll's recovery first.