Lance Stroll has sought advice from three-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen ahead of his GT racing debut. This debut comes during a break in the 2023 Formula 1 calendar. Stroll is set to compete in the GT World Challenge Europe season opener at Paul Ricard, racing an Aston Martin Vantage GT3.
Details of the GT Racing Commitment
For this event, Stroll will team up with former F1 driver Roberto Merhi and Aston Martin F1 academy driver Mari Boya. The race is part of the Endurance Cup championship. It initially conflicted with the canceled Bahrain Grand Prix due to ongoing military conflict in the Middle East.
Origin of the GT Racing Plan
Stroll revealed that the idea to participate in the GT race originated during the recent Japanese Grand Prix weekend. While sharing dinner with Merhi and others, they discussed activities for the upcoming month, resulting in the decision to race together.
Verstappen’s Influence
Stroll described his interaction with Verstappen as brief but valuable. They discussed potential contacts within GT racing to help facilitate Stroll’s entry. Verstappen, who is preparing for his own GT racing debut at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, provided insights drawn from his recent experiences.
Team Support and Race Expectations
Stroll credited Jean-Michel Baert, the owner and team principal of Comtoyou Racing, for swiftly organizing the logistics for this race. He expressed gratitude for Baert’s assistance in making this opportunity a reality in a short time frame.
Race Strategy and Goals
The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 that Stroll shares is one of four cars entered by Comtoyou Racing in an impressive 59-car field at Paul Ricard. Stroll’s primary objective this weekend is to enjoy the experience while remaining competitive. He conveyed optimism regarding their chances of securing victory, emphasizing that such opportunities are less common in Formula 1.
- Event: GT World Challenge Europe season opener
- Location: Paul Ricard
- Team: Comtoyou Racing
- Car: Aston Martin Vantage GT3
- Teammates: Roberto Merhi, Mari Boya
- Goal: Enjoyment and potential for victory
- Field Size: 59 cars
Stroll concluded by highlighting that while Formula 1 presents significant challenges in winning, the GT racing environment offers a unique blend of competition and possibility.
