Lance Stroll’s decision not to take part in the Barcelona race sparked plenty of discussion, with Felipe Drugovich seemingly ready to make his F1 debut with Aston Martin during the Canadian GP weekend. The Brazilian driver also stated that he was willing to give up the 24 Hours of Le Mans just for a minimal chance to get on track at the circuit named after Gilles Villeneuve.
Despite winning Formula 2, Felipe Drugovich has never had the opportunity to prove his talent in Formula 1. He has only done so during a few free practice sessions and during the preseason tests in 2023. On that occasion, he was called in to replace Lance Stroll, who had been involved in a bicycle accident that resulted in several hand fractures. Fractures which, according to the British team, were the reason behind the Canadian driver’s absence from the last race in Montmeló.
In reality, rumors in the paddock spoke of a rather frustrated Lance Stroll, due to being over half a second slower than Fernando Alonso in qualifying. These rumors were denied by Aston Martin, but based on the latest news, they appear to be increasingly plausible.
Latest updates on Lance Stroll’s recovery
With just a few days to go before the Canadian GP weekend, Stroll’s presence now seems increasingly likely, as the pain in his hand has reportedly subsided more quickly than expected. This would explain Felipe Drugovich’s arrival in Le Mans to focus on one of the most iconic races in the entire motorsport scene.
However, the official announcement is expected in the coming days, with the reserve drivers still waiting in the wings. Should the final decision come too late, the door could reopen for Valtteri Bottas. The Finn, as Mercedes’ third driver, can also be used by customer teams.
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