Lnce Stroll Faces Calls for REPLACEMENT Amid Aston Martin…read more
Lance Stroll’s position at Aston Martin has come under scrutiny following the team’s announcement of Felipe Drugovich’s re-signing as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season. This development, coupled with Aston Martin’s ongoing restructuring efforts, has intensified speculation about the Canadian driver’s future in the team.
Aston Martin’s Struggles and Ambitions
Aston Martin enters the 2025 season with ambitious goals, fueled by the arrival of famed engineer Adrian Newey from Red Bull and a new team principal. These significant changes are part of a broader overhaul aimed at reviving the team’s performance after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
In 2024, Aston Martin endured a lackluster season, finishing fifth in the Constructors’ Championship without a single podium finish. Fernando Alonso, a two-time world champion, managed to secure ninth place in the Drivers’ Championship with 70 points. In contrast, Lance Stroll finished a distant 13th with only 24 points, a performance that has further fueled criticism of the 26-year-old driver.
This decline in results marked a stark departure from the team’s relative success in 2023, when Alonso achieved eight podium finishes and ended the season fourth in the Drivers’ Championship. Stroll, by comparison, managed just 74 points and finished 10th. Despite these underwhelming performances, Stroll’s position in the team has long been considered secure due to his father, Lawrence Stroll, owning the Aston Martin team.
Felipe Drugovich’s Re-signing Sparks Debate
Aston Martin’s announcement that Felipe Drugovich will continue as the team’s reserve driver has reignited discussions about the future of their driver lineup. The 2022 Formula 2 champion has been affiliated with the team since 2022, contributing as a test and reserve driver. While Drugovich has yet to make his Formula 1 race debut, he has gained valuable experience in practice sessions, showcasing his potential for a full-time seat.
The Brazilian driver’s continued presence at Aston Martin has led to mounting calls from fans for him to replace Stroll. In a recent poll conducted by GPFans, an overwhelming 98% of respondents voted in favor of Drugovich being promoted to a full-time seat alongside Alonso. Only 2% suggested he should replace Alonso instead, while no fans supported the idea of Drugovich remaining without a race seat.
Stroll’s Future Under Pressure
Stroll’s inconsistent performances have drawn increasing criticism, with many questioning whether his tenure at Aston Martin is justified on merit. While he is currently on a rolling contract, his status as the team owner’s son has often shielded him from the kind of scrutiny faced by other drivers. However, Aston Martin’s aspirations to become a championship-contending team may force them to prioritize performance over familial ties.
Drugovich, who has demonstrated significant promise in junior categories, represents a viable alternative for Aston Martin. Promoting him to a full-time seat could inject fresh energy into the team and align with their vision of building a competitive lineup capable of challenging the sport’s frontrunners.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With Adrian Newey set to join Aston Martin, the team is optimistic about making significant strides in 2025. However, achieving their lofty ambitions will require consistent performances from both drivers. Alonso, known for his experience and skill, remains a strong asset to the team. Whether Stroll can rise to the challenge and justify his place alongside the Spanish veteran remains uncertain.
For Drugovich, the path to a full-time Formula 1 seat seems closer than ever. The growing demand from fans and his steady development as a reserve driver have positioned him as a strong contender to replace Stroll. If Aston Martin decides to make the switch, it could mark a turning point for the team as they strive to move up the grid.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Aston Martin to see how their reshaped team, both on and off the track, performs. Whether Stroll retains his seat or Drugovich steps in, the decision will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory in the coming years.
