Force India has confirmed the long-awaited news that Lance Stroll will race for the team in Formula 1 next season, completing the championship's 2019 driver line-up.
Ex-Ferrari protégé Stroll stepped up to Formula 1 with Williams in 2017 off the back of a title-winning campaign in European Formula 3, and took a surprise podium finish in Azerbaijan.
Stroll remained with Williams this year but has scored only a smattering of points amid the team’s regression through the order due to its struggles with the recalcitrant FW41.
Stroll’s father Lawrence emerged as the lead investor in Force India’s takeover by the Racing Point consortium, with an expectation that the youngster would switch teams.
Stroll had a seat fitting between Grands Prix in Belgium and Italy, fuelling rumours of an in-season move, though remained with Williams thereafter.
Stroll will partner incumbent Sergio Perez at the team, with the Mexican’s renewal having been announced during the build-up to the United States Grand Prix.
Esteban Ocon, who has raced for Force India through 2017/18, was confirmed as Mercedes’ test and reserve driver last week.
Stroll sampled Force India’s VJM11 for the first time during this week’s post-race test at Yas Marina.
On Friday, his 2019 race role was finally confirmed, with Force India announcing his move as a "long-term deal".
"This is the beginning of an incredibly exciting journey in my Formula 1 career," said Stroll.
"I look forward to working alongside a successful team with a great culture. It’s a new challenge and I am excited to embrace this new opportunity."
Discussion about this post