{"id":1875994,"date":"2026-04-10T12:18:56","date_gmt":"2026-04-10T09:18:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1875994"},"modified":"2026-04-10T12:18:56","modified_gmt":"2026-04-10T09:18:56","slug":"why-lance-stroll-thinks-winning-is-possible-on-his-gt-racing-debut","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1875994","title":{"rendered":"Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Lance Stroll has his targets said on silverware on his GT return.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Sam Hall <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-10T13:18:56+01:00\">10 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Lance Stroll<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Lance Stroll believes he can make a rare trip to the top step of the podium when debuting in the GT World Challenge this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>Lance Stroll joins the small but growing number of full-time Formula 1 drivers to compete outside of the world championship while the season is ongoing, taking advantage of the unplanned April break in the schedule.<\/p>\n<p>The Canadian will contest the six hour opening round of the GT World Challenge at Paul Ricard, the former French Grand Prix host circuit, driving an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO, run by Belgian team, Comtoyou Racing.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe decision came when we were in Suzuka,\u201d said Stroll. \u201cOn Saturday evening, we had dinner with some friends, and we were talking about what we could do during this break \u2013 about a month \u2013 because some races were cancelled.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Jean-Michel [Baert, Comtoyou team owner] was very accommodating, and we organised everything in about a week. Honestly, without Jean-Michel bringing everything together so quickly, it wouldn\u2019t have been possible.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Stroll had not driven a GT car in 10 years prior to a test at the Nurburgring last week \u2013 following in the footsteps of Max Verstappen, who is preparing to contest the Nurburgring 24 Hour.<\/p>\n<p>Racing alongside friend and former Marussia F1 driver Roberto Mehri, and Aston Martin Academy driver Mari Boya, Stroll has his targets set on the podium, something he is all too aware is a distant way off in F1.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-17a17f2c20e739c9afa3cc3c20f2888b04f6db4dea55d2c0a4011d79fb9fcfcd\">  The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break   Honda only responsible for half of Aston Martin&#8217;s F1 pace deficit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cIn Formula 1, you don\u2019t always have the opportunity to win,\u201d he said. \u201cHere, it\u2019s very competitive, but even if it\u2019s our first time and we lack experience, if everything comes together \u2013 good setup, good feeling \u2013 winning is possible.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That doesn\u2019t really exist in Formula 1. That\u2019s also a big motivation for me to be here.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>With less of a spotlight away from the F1 paddock, Stroll hopes to continue his GT activities throughout the year.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d5d4b03f10610e300a6a424533cc58849cf5e9b8aac69e47aab9b1ddd7c7f9d4\">  Fernando Alonso concedes Aston Martin &#8220;a few months&#8221; from F1 recovery   Lance Stroll joins ex-F1 driver for surprise GT racing debut at Paul Ricard <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Comparing the calendars, while the Monza round is the only other option for Stroll in the first half of the season, he could contest each of the final five rounds, although this would mean one weekend away from a track in 10, between the Dutch Grand Prix on 23 August, to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 8.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s different \u2013 less downforce, less power \u2013 but it moves more,&#8221; he added. &#8220;You can attack kerbs more, which is different. And in traffic, you can follow cars much more closely than in Formula 1.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;If I feel good physically and mentally, I\u2019d like to do more races during the year.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, whenever I\u2019m in the car with my helmet on, whether it\u2019s here, Formula 1, or even karting, it\u2019s always the same mindset. But here, it\u2019s nice: fewer media duties, more time in the garage working with the team and just driving and enjoying it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Aston Martin<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Lance Stroll<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Why Max Verstappen is not racing in NLS3 this weekend<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404374_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Why Gianpiero Lambiase isn&#8217;t the only ace McLaren could play to lure Max Verstappen from F1 rival Red Bull<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202512070361.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-a16c3978e05c13925e11a9c6f9d89b43527f181e084eccd8fb6b9371697768d2\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/whatsapp-image-2026-03-05-at-12.30.04.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/whatsapp-image-2026-03-05-at-12.30.04.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/whatsapp-image-2026-03-05-at-12.30.04.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Sam Hall<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Sam joined Crash.net in February 2026 with extensive experience in motorsport media, having covered numerous championships around the world.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-f5937c3cfedcf241d9df5fa3f1a0f29038e9cf243bb41215a6dc95f20628bea9\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Aston Martin: No need for peace talks with Honda amid F1 2026 misery<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775041852\"> 01\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/2268568957.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Aston Martin and Honda have endured a torrid start to F1 2026\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Stroll&#8217;s surprising claim about \u201cAston Martin championship\u201d battle<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774954223\"> 31\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/2268868517.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Stroll and Alonso battled over last place at Suzuka \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Aston Martin&#8217;s major 2026 Japan F1 milestone &#8216;not a cause for celebration&#8217;<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774859074\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1403811_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin, 2026 Japanese GP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Fernando Alonso \u2018super happy\u2019 as he shares heartwarming personal news<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774606649\"> 27\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/2266570748.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Alonso has become a father for the first time at 44\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Aston Martin\u2019s unconvincing response to growing Wheatley rumours<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774599199\"> 27\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1394920_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Wheatley left Audi after a year with the German squad\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Honda clarifies Aston Martin &#8220;misunderstanding&#8221; after Newey comments<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774591472\"> 27\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/xpb_1399052_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Newey has not been at a race since Australia \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Lance Stroll has his targets said on silverware on his GT return.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Lance Stroll believes he can make a rare trip to the top step of the podium when debuting in the GT World Challenge this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>Lance Stroll joins the small but growing number of full-time Formula 1 drivers to compete outside of the world championship while the season is ongoing, taking advantage of the unplanned April break in the schedule.<\/p>\n<p>The Canadian will contest the six hour opening round of the GT World Challenge at Paul Ricard, the former French Grand Prix host circuit, driving an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO, run by Belgian team, Comtoyou Racing.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe decision came when we were in Suzuka,\u201d said Stroll. \u201cOn Saturday evening, we had dinner with some friends, and we were talking about what we could do during this break \u2013 about a month \u2013 because some races were cancelled.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Jean-Michel [Baert, Comtoyou team owner] was very accommodating, and we organised everything in about a week. Honestly, without Jean-Michel bringing everything together so quickly, it wouldn\u2019t have been possible.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Stroll had not driven a GT car in 10 years prior to a test at the Nurburgring last week \u2013 following in the footsteps of Max Verstappen, who is preparing to contest the Nurburgring 24 Hour.<\/p>\n<p>Racing alongside friend and former Marussia F1 driver Roberto Mehri, and Aston Martin Academy driver Mari Boya, Stroll has his targets set on the podium, something he is all too aware is a distant way off in F1.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-17a17f2c20e739c9afa3cc3c20f2888b04f6db4dea55d2c0a4011d79fb9fcfcd\">  The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break   Honda only responsible for half of Aston Martin&#8217;s F1 pace deficit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cIn Formula 1, you don\u2019t always have the opportunity to win,\u201d he said. \u201cHere, it\u2019s very competitive, but even if it\u2019s our first time and we lack experience, if everything comes together \u2013 good setup, good feeling \u2013 winning is possible.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That doesn\u2019t really exist in Formula 1. That\u2019s also a big motivation for me to be here.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>With less of a spotlight away from the F1 paddock, Stroll hopes to continue his GT activities throughout the year.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d5d4b03f10610e300a6a424533cc58849cf5e9b8aac69e47aab9b1ddd7c7f9d4\">  Fernando Alonso concedes Aston Martin &#8220;a few months&#8221; from F1 recovery   Lance Stroll joins ex-F1 driver for surprise GT racing debut at Paul Ricard <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Comparing the calendars, while the Monza round is the only other option for Stroll in the first half of the season, he could contest each of the final five rounds, although this would mean one weekend away from a track in 10, between the Dutch Grand Prix on 23 August, to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 8.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s different \u2013 less downforce, less power \u2013 but it moves more,&#8221; he added. &#8220;You can attack kerbs more, which is different. And in traffic, you can follow cars much more closely than in Formula 1.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;If I feel good physically and mentally, I\u2019d like to do more races during the year.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, whenever I\u2019m in the car with my helmet on, whether it\u2019s here, Formula 1, or even karting, it\u2019s always the same mindset. But here, it\u2019s nice: fewer media duties, more time in the garage working with the team and just driving and enjoying it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Lance Stroll believes he can make a rare trip to the top step of the podium when debuting in the GT World Challenge this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>Lance Stroll joins the small but growing number of full-time Formula 1 drivers to compete outside of the world championship while the season is ongoing, taking advantage of the unplanned April break in the schedule.<\/p>\n<p>The Canadian will contest the six hour opening round of the GT World Challenge at Paul Ricard, the former French Grand Prix host circuit, driving an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO, run by Belgian team, Comtoyou Racing.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe decision came when we were in Suzuka,\u201d said Stroll. \u201cOn Saturday evening, we had dinner with some friends, and we were talking about what we could do during this break \u2013 about a month \u2013 because some races were cancelled.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Jean-Michel [Baert, Comtoyou team owner] was very accommodating, and we organised everything in about a week. Honestly, without Jean-Michel bringing everything together so quickly, it wouldn\u2019t have been possible.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Stroll had not driven a GT car in 10 years prior to a test at the Nurburgring last week \u2013 following in the footsteps of Max Verstappen, who is preparing to contest the Nurburgring 24 Hour.<\/p>\n<p>Racing alongside friend and former Marussia F1 driver Roberto Mehri, and Aston Martin Academy driver Mari Boya, Stroll has his targets set on the podium, something he is all too aware is a distant way off in F1.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-17a17f2c20e739c9afa3cc3c20f2888b04f6db4dea55d2c0a4011d79fb9fcfcd\">  The biggest winners and losers from F1\u2019s surprise five-week break   Honda only responsible for half of Aston Martin&#8217;s F1 pace deficit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cIn Formula 1, you don\u2019t always have the opportunity to win,\u201d he said. \u201cHere, it\u2019s very competitive, but even if it\u2019s our first time and we lack experience, if everything comes together \u2013 good setup, good feeling \u2013 winning is possible.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That doesn\u2019t really exist in Formula 1. That\u2019s also a big motivation for me to be here.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>With less of a spotlight away from the F1 paddock, Stroll hopes to continue his GT activities throughout the year.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d5d4b03f10610e300a6a424533cc58849cf5e9b8aac69e47aab9b1ddd7c7f9d4\">  Fernando Alonso concedes Aston Martin &#8220;a few months&#8221; from F1 recovery   Lance Stroll joins ex-F1 driver for surprise GT racing debut at Paul Ricard <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Comparing the calendars, while the Monza round is the only other option for Stroll in the first half of the season, he could contest each of the final five rounds, although this would mean one weekend away from a track in 10, between the Dutch Grand Prix on 23 August, to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 8.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s different \u2013 less downforce, less power \u2013 but it moves more,&#8221; he added. &#8220;You can attack kerbs more, which is different. And in traffic, you can follow cars much more closely than in Formula 1.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;If I feel good physically and mentally, I\u2019d like to do more races during the year.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For me, whenever I\u2019m in the car with my helmet on, whether it\u2019s here, Formula 1, or even karting, it\u2019s always the same mindset. But here, it\u2019s nice: fewer media duties, more time in the garage working with the team and just driving and enjoying it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/news\/1092946\/1\/why-lance-stroll-thinks-winning-possible-his-gt-racing-debut&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-02\/xpb_1394990_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] Why Lance Stroll thinks winning is possible on his GT racing debut Lance Stroll has his targets said on silverware on his GT return. Sam Hall 10 Apr 2026 Share Lance Stroll Add as a preferred source Lance Stroll believes he can make a rare trip to the top step of the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1875994","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1875994","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1875994"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1875994\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1875994"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1875994"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1875994"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}