Drugovich will race for Aston Martin in Bahrain GP if Stroll is not fit

The Aston Martin team has been in the news across the three days of F1 2023 Bahrain pre-season test, not just for their on-track performance but also some off-track chatter. It started just before the test when they revealed of Stroll’s injury.

The Canadian injured his hand and wrist after a suspected fall during training while cycling in Barcelona. The team deployed reserve driver Drugovich for Day 1 of the pre-season test, while Fernando Alonso drove for the full day on Day 2.

The Brazilian returned on Day 3 in the morning session. By the end of the day, speculation rose of a return of Sebastian Vettel when team principal Mike Krack noted about being in talks with the German, which is said was something he does in general.

While the possibility in Bahrain was less, the inquiry was regarding Saudi Arabia if the injury takes more time. Krack more or less put it down were Plan A remained to have Stroll, with Plan B consisting of mostly its reserve drivers Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne.

But before any more speculations, Aston Martin has now confirmed Drugovich to make his F1 debut in Bahrain GP alongside Alonso if Stroll is not fit to drive. The team will give him enough time to be there and if not, the reigning F2 champion will take the grid.

“The team will continue to give Lance every chance to race, pending recovery from his injury. Should he not be fit to compete, then Felipe will drive the AMR23 alongside Fernando,” Aston Martin stated in a small statement.

Here’s what drivers said after Day 1

Here’s what drivers said after Day 2

Here’s what drivers said after Day 3

Here’s Mike Krack on Sebastian Vettel and others

Here’s Mike Krack, Felipe Drugovich on the situation

Here’s news on Lance Stroll

Here’s news on Aston Martin reserve on loan to McLaren

Here’s Fernando Alonso on hunger within Aston Martin