Lance Stroll has always been more convincing in racing than in qualifying this season and gave himself the opportunity to realize his ambitions by finishing third on the grid for the Brazilian Grand Prix on Friday.
The Quebecer came onto the track at the right time in the third section (Q3), as rain prevented the drivers from coming out in the last five minutes. A stormy sky of ominous darkness covered the Interlagos circuit until the storm broke.
“We are lucky that the rain is coming, but we also made the right decisions. Fernando [Alonso] and I was able to do our laps in the third quarter before the rain started,” Stroll said, according to the Aston Martin team website.
An unexpected result for the 25-year-old, as he started the last two races from 20th and last place. He has not started in the top 10 since the Belgian Grand Prix on July 30 and his best starting finish was fifth in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.
Looking to Sunday
Stroll’s performance in free practice earlier in the day suggested a bright future. He was sixth fastest in this session, less than half a second behind leader Carlos Sainz.
In qualifying his time was 1 minute and 11.344 minutes in Q3 when the track didn’t offer the best conditions. The Aston Martins took sole control of the second row while Alonso set the fourth fastest time.
“With both cars starting on the second row we are aiming for a podium on Sunday but I think it will be a tough race. “All the teams are pretty close to each other and it’s difficult to know exactly where we stand,” Stroll admitted.
“The points will be awarded on Sunday, so let’s see what we can do with a good starting position.”
It’s Max Verstappen (Red Bull) who will start from the top position thanks to a time of 1:10.727. Ferrari team representative Charles Leclerc will start at his side.
Sunday’s Grand Prix will be preceded by a sprint race on Saturday, the last of the 2023 Formula 1 season.