Lance Stroll will miss the 2023 winter tests. The Canadian is unable to participate due to an accident during the week of testing. Aston Martin is therefore looking for a replacement and one should be announced soon.
Tests start on Thursday and with Fernando Alonso in the team, Aston Martin has at least filled half of the three days. The removal of Stroll calls for a quick decision for a replacement. Unofficial sources on Twitter expect an announcement to probably follow today.
Good preparation for Alonso?
It is possible that Alonso will take on the full three days of testing. Lando Norris did the same last year with three days due to the absence of then McLaren teammate Daniel Ricciardo. Another possibility is reserve driver Felipe Drugovich, but his contract could potentially prevent him from replacing Stroll.
A third option also seems ruled out. At least, that is what the German medium Bild writes. Mick Schumacher, the reserve driver of Mercedes, the brand that supplies Aston Martin with engines, is not claiming the test seat. It now seems most likely that the gaps during the test days will be filled by Alonso.