Aston Martin name two key reasons why Lance Stroll’s contract was extended beyond 2024

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While it might come as no surprise that Aston Martin has extended Lance Stroll’s rolling contract at the team, there are two key reasons why he is staying.

Stroll has been criticised for his performances having failed to match teammate Fernando Alonso, who achieved eight podiums with their car last year.

Aston Martin has suffered from a lacklustre start to the 2024 season, with the team sitting fifth in the Constructors’ Championship having amassed just 58 points. Stroll himself has scored 17 points, having recently impressed at his home race when he finished inside the top ten.

Many point towards the fact that his father owns the team as being the only reason why he is on the grid. While Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll is unlikely to sack his son, there are questions over whether he would be able to win a title if the team gets into that position in the next few years.

READ MORE: Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll’s life outside F1 from net worth to girlfriend

Mike Krack praises Lance Stroll’s performance

Last year Alonso scored a total of 206 points while Stroll was only on 74 points, with the Spaniard also out-qualifying him on 19 occasions out of the 22 races.

Team principal Mike Krack offered some insight into the team’s decision to keep the Canadian while they continue to improve their car and get back to challenging the front runners.

“We are delighted to confirm Lance’s future with Aston Martin Aramco. He has played a key role in building this team. His technical feedback, alongside his committed simulator work, has helped contribute to the continuous development of the car each season,” said Krack.

“The consistency and stability of both Lance and Fernando remaining with our team is a great platform to continue to realise our ambitions. We look forward to creating some more incredible memories and achieving further success together.”

Lance Stroll a continuity option

Aston Martin clearly is not phased by Stroll’s performance, even if his results last year could be traced back to potentially costing them fourth in the Constructors’ Championship.

Things have not really improved this year, with his qualifying deficit around two-tenths to Alonso while he only has three appearances in Q3.

But if Stroll can still contribute to their points tally and provide decent enough results without upsetting the dynamic on track with Alonso, it effectively puts Aston Martin in the same position as Red Bull; a star driver leading the team and a rear-gunner.

Alonso admitted he was ‘surprised’ after their first season together, highlighting his dedication through the 2023 season to get his year back on track after setbacks.