Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll will sit out the one and only 2023 Formula 1 pre-season testing session in Bahrain this week, after suffering a bike accident.
The Canadian, for whom the team was built, will partner newcomer the father Lawrence Stroll’s team in the form of veteran Fernando Alonso who is expected to spend most of the time in the new AMR23.
Aston Martin reported today: “Whilst pre-season training on a bicycle in Spain, Lance Stroll was involved in a minor accident and sustained injuries which will result in him sitting out the pre-season test in Bahrain.
“Lance is however expecting a quick recovery and return to driving duties. His fitness to return to the cockpit will be assessed daily and the team will issue an update ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
“The team wishes Lance a speedy recovery and looks forward to his usual energy and commitment within the team.”
BREAKING: Lance Stroll to miss pre-season testing in Bahrain after training accident#F1 pic.twitter.com/UDDBkdKELW
— Formula 1 (@F1) February 20, 2023
Stroll can do with the track time as all his rivals do and will get, putting him on the back-foot at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix, with zero mileage under his belt in the new car.
Stroll said of his mishap: “I’ve had an unfortunate accident whilst training on my bike in preparation for the season. I am determined to get back in the car and I am excited about the season ahead with the team. I am motivated to bounce back from this setback as quickly as possible.”
No mention was made by the team of who would replace Stroll, if a reserve will step up for some time oin the cockpit, or if 41-year-old Alonso will handle all three days.
Coincidentally, the Spaniard also suffered a preseason accident, ahead of his comeback in early 2021, when he too was involved in a biking accident, needing surgery before his return to the top flight with Alpine that season.