Aston Martin explain lasting impact of Stroll's pre-season accident

Aston Martin Technical Director Dan Fallows has explained the "struggle" Lance Stroll has faced over his Formula 1 fitness since his pre-season cycling accident.

Stroll was forced to skip testing in Bahrain following the incident in Spain, which left him with wrist and toe injuries, but returned to action at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix where he scored a P6 result.

While the Canadian recently revealed that he had only felt back to full fitness at the Monaco Grand Prix in May, Fallows has praised Stroll's achievements in light of the accident.

"The first thing to say is that it's extraordinary that he managed to get into the car in Bahrain and put in the performance that he did," Fallows told media, including RacingNews365.com.

"And then, in subsequent races, yes, I mean he’s obviously been struggling a little bit with that, and his fitness.

"But really, incredibly gutsy performances from him, particularly in the start of the season."

Stroll still gaining confidence

Stroll has failed to match the achievements of teammate Fernando Alonso so far in 2023, with Alonso currently holding 117 points to Stroll's 37.

However, Fallows believes that the 24-year-old is continuing to feel more comfortable in the car in the months since his accident.

"He has to gain confidence with his driving and the way that he feels that his fitness is and the way he can respond to the car," Fallows explained.

"But I think, frankly, it didn't take him a great deal of time to get comfortable.

"I think he is much happier with the car now, he obviously feels much fitter in himself and I think [Monaco], particularly, demonstrated that."