Lance Stroll has officially withdrawn from the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix, set to occur on Sunday, following the announcement that he will undergo a procedure related to ongoing issues with his hand and wrist. The Aston Martin driver had qualified in 14th place during Saturday’s session, while his teammate Fernando Alonso secured the 10th fastest position.
Stroll’s withdrawal comes as he has been experiencing pain in his hand and wrist over the last six weeks, which is reportedly linked to a procedure he underwent earlier in the year following a cycling accident. In that incident, he sustained multiple injuries, including a broken toe, which required significant medical intervention. The current procedure aims to address these ongoing issues before he can focus on recuperating.
While Aston Martin has not revealed the exact timing of the procedure or the anticipated recovery period, Stroll’s participation in his home race in Canada, scheduled in two weeks, remains uncertain. If he is unable to compete, reserve drivers Felipe Drugovich or Stoffel Vandoorne may step in, although Drugovich is currently on site in Spain and would be unable to substitute as he hasn’t participated in any sessions this weekend.
Additionally, Stroll faced scrutiny after the qualifying session for not adhering to the post-qualifying weighing procedure, spending an extended time in the team garage before proceeding to the scales.
This situation serves as a reminder of the physical demands placed on Formula 1 drivers and the importance of maintaining health and safety standards within the sport. It is hopeful that Stroll’s forthcoming procedure will effectively resolve his issues, allowing him to return to competitive racing soon.