Ocon defends Stroll’s place in Formula 1

Aston Martin has dismissed speculation that Lance Stroll is on the verge of being replaced in the team’s Formula 1 lineup.

The 26-year-old missed the Spanish Grand Prix and underwent another wrist procedure, prompting fresh rumours about his future in F1. Some even claimed Stroll had a garage outburst that led to his absence - something the team strongly denies.

"Lance is feeling fit and healthy," the team announced, confirming that he has recently completed "some laps" at Paul Ricard in an older-spec Formula 1 car.

The team said he will return for his home race this weekend in Montreal. Still, Stroll’s absence reignited longstanding doubts about his long-term place alongside Fernando Alonso.

Despite team owner Lawrence Stroll being his father, speculation continues that other drivers – including George Russell and Yuki Tsunoda - are being considered for the second Aston Martin seat in 2026.

"It's normal for the media to speculate about the driver market," a team spokesperson said. "But we have an incredible lineup of drivers who are committed and under contract for 2026 and beyond."

Yet Stroll’s reputation as a competent but not standout driver, and questions about his passion for the sport, persist.

Esteban Ocon, however, defended his fellow driver and longtime friend.

"I know he doesn't talk much," Ocon told Le Journal de Montreal. "He confides more in people he trusts. But he's a really lovely person. And so is his dad."

Ocon said he’s known Stroll since their karting days and that public perception doesn't match reality.

"People may not understand this," he said, "but Lance is passionate about racing like no other. Everything else interests him less because what he likes is driving the car."

Ocon also rejected claims that Stroll is only in F1 due to his father's financial backing.

"That's not true," he said. "Because Lance is someone who won international karting races when there was (Max) Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, myself. We were all fighting together and Lance was in that group.

"It's not true that money got him there. Not at all," Ocon added. "Maybe, yes, there are easier ways to get to F1, but in the end, there's no money with you in the car."

According to Auto Motor und Sport, Stroll still needs to pass an FIA medical clearance before he can officially return to the grid this weekend.