F1 News: Aston Martin Chief Makes Bold Lance Stroll Prediction - "Will Equal Fernando Alonso By End Of Year"

Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin's chief, holds a positive outlook for his son Lance's future in Formula 1, anticipating that his skill will match two-time world champion Fernando Alonso's by the end of the season, and looks forward to a podium finish for Lance at the Montreal race.

Lawrence Stroll, the esteemed head of Aston Martin and father to Lance Stroll, exudes optimism about his son's future in the world of Formula 1 racing. The Canadian magnate seems convinced that by the conclusion of the current season, his son's skills on the track will parallel those of his teammate, two-time champion Fernando Alonso. He shared these insights during an interview with Reuters.

Stroll Senior eagerly anticipates witnessing his son take a place on the podium in his home race in Montreal this weekend. If this prediction comes true, Lance would be the first Canadian to achieve a home podium finish since Jacques Villeneuve did so back in 1996. 

"Those are exactly the plans. Hopefully we get two cars on the podium.

"I'm extremely confident. I believe the car will be very strong around the Montreal circuit, it suits our car well. I'm really looking forward to going home and really looking forward to a great race."

Lance managed to finish sixth in Barcelona, surpassing even his experienced teammate, Alonso, who suffered from floor damage hindering his qualifying session. Despite the fact that Alonso intentionally lagged behind the young Canadian, Lance's performance was reassuring for his father. Stroll Sr. believes his son's performance in Barcelona marked the beginning of Lance's ascent.

"I think he [Lance] demonstrated in Barcelona he's now starting, it took six or seven races, to feel better."

However, Lance’s journey has not been without setbacks. He was sidelined during the testing days in Bahrain due to a cycling accident that resulted in injuries to both of his wrists. 

"I believe that [Stroll and Alonso] will be equal [by the end of the year]," he forecasts. The matter of Stroll Junior's seat seems settled, but there are questions about how long Alonso will continue to race alongside him. "I think most people would never have believed Fernando would be around today. Probably a little long to see him around in '26 but never say never."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SI F1 (@sportsillustrated_f1)

Join the new home of F1 on Reddit