As the Formula 1 season crosses the Atlantic, all eyes are on Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix—an eagerly awaited home race for Canadian driver Lance Stroll. After sitting out the Spanish Grand Prix due to persistent hand and wrist pain, Stroll has been cleared to return behind the wheel of the AMR25. His comeback timing couldn’t be better, and fans can expect emotion, dedication, and national pride when #18 lines up at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve this weekend. Here’s everything you need to know about his remarkable return.
Cleared to Compete at Home
Aston Martin announced today that Lance Stroll has been medically cleared to race in Canada after undergoing a successful procedure to address lingering pain linked to a 2023 cycling accident that fractured his right wrist and left hand.
Stroll returned to track action with a test in an older F1 car at Paul Ricard earlier this week, and the feedback has been positive:
“Lance is feeling fit and healthy, and is excited to compete in front of his home crowd.”
Stroll Speaks: Grateful and Determined
After intense weeks of rehab, Lance Arvid at last expresses relief and gratitude:
“I am excited to get back behind the wheel with the team for my home Grand Prix this weekend. I was always going to fight hard to be ready to race in front of the Montreal crowd,” he shared.
He also thanked fans for their unwavering support:
“I’m feeling good after my procedure and put some laps in at Paul Ricard this week to prepare. Thanks for all the support, see you guys this weekend!”
Team Confirmation: Plan A in Motion
Aston Martin’s chief trackside officer, Mike Krack, explained that returning Stroll was the team’s Plan A, with reserve drivers Felipe Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne (each competing at Le Mans) designated as contingency—Plan B if needed.
Formula 1 regulations also confirmed that no stand-in was allowed in Spain because Stroll had already participated in qualifying, meaning only his withdrawal from the race was permitted continuing via medical advice.
Current Standings & Context
Heading into Canada, Stroll ranks 12th in the Drivers’ Championship with 14 points, while McLaren’s Oscar Piastri leads with a commanding 186 points. His return aims to stabilize Aston Martin’s mid-field stretch and evoke momentum ahead of key upcoming races.
The Significance of Montreal
Montreal is deeply meaningful to Stroll, a Montreal native racing in front of family, friends, and thrilled fans. His record shows mixed fortunes—sixes and inhales—but no matter his result, performing at home always holds emotional weight.
What to Watch This Weekend
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Fitness Factor: Will the hand and wrist issue hamper his performance during long stints or wheel changes?
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Qualifying Edge: After performing solidly in FP at Barcelona, can Stroll convert that into a strong grid position here?
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Team Dynamics: Will he support Fernando Alonso’s charge, or battle teammates for midfield supremacy?
Final Thoughts
Lance Stroll’s return for the Canadian GP is a critical moment—not just in terms of driver health, but for Aston Martin’s team morale and performance. Expect emotion, focus, and significant fanfare as #18 calls back to his roots.
