Is It Time for Aston Martin to Re-Evaluate Lance Stroll's Future in Formula 1?

We all know Formula 1 is a cut-throat sport. It demands nothing but the best from its drivers, teams, and engineers with a very small margin for error and lackluster performance. As the 2023 season rounds out its first half, teams and fans alike are delving into the stats and evaluating the performances of the 20 drivers that race in the series. 

A recent post on the Formula 1 socials has highlighted a significant disparity in performance between the two Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. The data underscores Alonso’s dominance in every category, raising the question: is it time for Aston Martin and Lance’s father, Lawrence Stroll, to reconsider Lance’s future in the sport?

The data presented paints a stark picture. Alonso’s years of experience and previous accolades, including two Formula 1 world championships, have earned him the title of one of the sport's best. While he doesn't have the statistics of say Lewis Hamilton or Michael Schumacher, he is often talked about has one of the greatest drivers of all time.

Alonso, who just turned 42 years of age demonstrates that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level week in week out, with impressive podium finishes in the AMR23. On the other side of the garage, Lance Stroll who is competing in his 7th year in Formula One, has yet to finish on the podium and is behind his teammate by over 100 championship points.

For Aston Martin, this disparity is more than just a matter of individual performance. Each driver plays a pivotal role in securing points, impacting the team's position and, by extension, its financial rewards. As the team witnesses a slide down the constructors’ table, every point not secured by an underperforming car becomes even more crucial. This lag can have a direct implication on the prize money — an essential fuel for future developments in this cash-intensive sport.

Lance Stroll's journey in Formula 1, though dotted with moments of brilliance, has often come under scrutiny. When compared to previous teammates, like Sergio Perez at Racing Point, the performance gap has often been evident. This isn't to discount his talent — he's had podium finishes and moments where he showcased his racing mettle. However, consistency remains elusive.

Furthermore, while Alonso's current form is commendable, age is an undeniable factor. He won't be in the sport forever. His eventual departure will leave a void. Relying on Lance, with his current performance trajectory, to fill those shoes might not be a sustainable option for Aston Martin. This presents a conundrum: Do they nurture and develop Lance, hoping for consistent results, or do they seek another driver who can step up to the plate, especially when Alonso decides to hang up his racing gloves?

Apart from being a business magnate, Lance's Father Lawrence is also a passionate F1 enthusiast. His acquisition of Aston Martin and the injection of funds showcased his commitment to making the brand a top contender. Given this ambition, it might be time for a difficult father-son conversation. Lance's tenure in the sport isn't just about family legacy but about ensuring that the Aston Martin team has the best possible chance to compete at the top.

Lance Stroll is undoubtedly talented. He's had podium finishes and has shown he can race under pressure. However, in a sport as competitive as Formula 1, where tenths of a second make a difference, consistency is key. 

While it would be premature to write off Lance's F1 career, it’s crucial for Aston Martin to evaluate their long-term goals and the best driver pairing to achieve them. If the aim is to ascend in the constructors' table, then tough decisions might be on the horizon.