Lance Stroll had found the smile, Sunday, after having won the 10e position at the Canadian Grand Prix. It’s not Peru, but after failing to score points in its previous three races, it’s a relief.
And it’s even more satisfying, because he gets this result in front of his people. He has now finished in the points in three of his four races at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.
“It is taken well, he also recognized, he who took the start of the 17e place on the grid. Things are definitely more difficult this year, but I’m happy to have had a successful race today. »
“We had an excellent strategy by deciding to drive as long as possible with the first set of tires to make a single stop. »
Before his only pit stop, Stroll held off for several laps three cars driving just behind — Yuki Tsunoda (AlphaTauri), Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) and Daniel Ricciardo (McLaren). Then, on his return to the track after changing tires, he allowed himself to overtake Ricciardo for the 10e square.
“That overtake on Daniel was a bonus, I had fresher tyres. »
However, Stroll is still having trouble adapting to this year’s car.
“It was a little better today. But we must continue to work so that I am more comfortable in the car. It’s the toughest car I’ve ever driven in my career. »
“The car still has behaviors that surprise me. There is still work to be more confident as in the last two years. »
After a two-year absence due to the pandemic, Stroll particularly appreciated the reception of fans. “A big thank you to all the fans for giving me such a fantastic welcome all weekend. It’s amazing to run home after such a long absence. »
Frustrated Vettel
His teammate Sebastian Vettel had a frustrating day, settling for 12e square.
“It just wasn’t my day. We adopted the strategy of stopping early in the race, but the virtual safety cars came at the wrong time. It really compromised my race. »
“At the end I was on very old tires and tried to hang on, but it didn’t work. Lance was on fresher tyres, and the team asked me to let him through to attack Daniel, which I was happy to do. »
Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack praised the methodical work of his two drivers.