Stroll returns for Canadian GP after surgery and Paul Ricard test

Lance Stroll will drive in the Canadian Grand Prix after recovering in time having undergone surgery during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend.

The Aston Martin driver withdrew from the Barcelona weekend after qualifying when he experienced problems on the wrist he injured in a cycling accident ahead of the start of the 2023 season.

The Canadian driver underwent surgery right away, but his presence in Montreal was in doubt given it was just two weeks between races.

But on Wednesday, Aston Martin announced that Stroll had made a successful recovery to be ready to drive in his home event.

The team said Stroll has completed some laps in an old F1 car at Paul Ricard earlier this week and that he was “feeling fit and healthy”.

“I am excited to get back behind the wheel with the team for my home grand prix this weekend,” said Stroll. “I was always going to fight hard to be ready to race in front of the Montreal crowd.

“I’m feeling good after my procedure and put some laps in at Paul Ricard this week to prepare.”

Stroll’s recovery means Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich will be able to focus on the Le Mans 24 Hours, where he is competing with a Cadillac Hypercar.