Doc 43 - Decision - Car 18 - Failing to set a lap time within 107%

2026 Australian Grand Prix - Stewards Decision

From: The Stewards
To: The Team Manager, Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team
Document: 43
Date: 07 March 2026
Time: 19:35

Subject

Request to allow Car 18 (Lance Stroll) to start the Race despite failing to set a qualifying time within 107% of the fastest time set in Q1.

Details & Reasons

In accordance with Article B2.4.3b of the FIA F1 Regulations, the Stewards have granted permission based on the following compelling factors:

• Team Performance: Car 14 (Fernando Alonso) proved the AMR26 was capable of staying within the 107% limit.
• Driver Experience (Lance Stroll):
  • Completed 859km in the AMR26 this year.
  • 178 Grand Prix starts since 2017.
  • Significant experience at the Australian GP (7 starts, best finish 4th in 2023).
  • Career total of 325 points, including podiums and a pole position.
• Technical Issue: The team withdrew the car from Qualifying as a precaution due to a damaged oil line.

Conclusion

Decision: The Stewards grant permission for Lance Stroll to start the Race. The car will be placed on the grid in accordance with Article B2.5.4 of the FIA F1 Regulations.

Stewards: Nish Shetty, Mathieu Remmerie, Pedro Lamy, Matthew Selley