Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll had more downs than ups in 2023, but fought his way back despite a lot of criticism – How he analyzes his and the team’s form
Lance Stroll had to put up with a lot of criticism in the 2023 Formula 1 season. In direct comparison with his new team-mate Fernando Alonso, the Canadian often fell significantly behind at Aston Martin, leading to speculation about a premature end to the 25-year-old’s career
However, towards the end of the season, Stroll was able to bounce back with strong results. He finished fifth in both Brazil and Vegas – a relief for him and Aston.
“It was a really strong start to the season, a really difficult middle of the season and then a strong end to the season,” says Stroll, summing up his year. For next year, he sees a few things “that we need to sort out, but it was a season full of emotion, for sure,” says the Aston Martin driver, looking back.
Stroll says of the difficult phase in the middle of the season, in which he was repeatedly defended publicly by team boss Mike Krack, but criticism also grew internally: “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger!”
Team-mate Alonso also praised Stroll for the way in which he pulled himself back together. However, the Spaniard achieved the team’s greatest successes of the season. The two-time world champion took three second and five third places for Aston.
“He had an incredible season, for sure,” says Stroll. “All those podiums and he was just very strong all year. He made the most of the car when it was at its best. As a team, we lost touch a little bit in the second half of the season,” says the Canadian.
“Teams like McLaren, even Mercedes and Ferrari were faster than us in many races, improved and finished the season stronger than us,” he says, drawing a comparison.
“So I think next year we will try to start with a car that is very strong again and then try to keep that a little bit stronger throughout the season. I think that’s the goal.”
The development work that Aston Martin has done over the past year in terms of infrastructure and personnel should also help. “Definitely,” confirms Stroll. “There are definitely more people, more resources. These are very positive things. “
