Aston Martin Explains Lance Stroll's Silent Interview After Monza GP

Aston Martin's Chief Trackside Officer Mike Krack acknowledged Lance Stroll's "certain level of frustration" following the Italian Grand Prix, which saw the driver give an unusually silent post-race interview.

Why it matters:

Stroll, known for his concise answers, remained completely silent more than once when questioned by reporters after finishing 18th at Monza. This rare display of frustration highlights the team's challenging weekend despite a recent upturn in form.

The Details:

• Frustrating Race: Stroll started P16 and finished last of the classified runners, P18. His teammate Fernando Alonso also retired due to a suspension failure, marking a difficult Grand Prix for Aston Martin.
• Silent Interview: When asked about an incident with Esteban Ocon (who received a 5-second penalty for forcing Stroll off track), Stroll initially remained silent, eventually stating, "I don't have anything to say about it." He offered minimal responses to other questions regarding his race and strategy.
• Team's Explanation: Krack revealed the team encountered a "pit gantry issue" that needs further investigation. He also explained a failed strategy gamble: "We said, ‘Let’s wait until the safety car comes this time,’ and then it doesn’t come." This, combined with very low tire degradation at Monza, left Stroll fighting without opportunities.

The Big Picture:

Aston Martin has shown impressive form recently, achieving three double-points finishes in the last five Grands Prix and fighting for P5 in the Constructors’ Championship. However, off-weekends like Monza tend to be particularly frustrating for the team and drivers. Stroll currently holds a two-point lead over his two-time World Champion teammate, Fernando Alonso, in the Drivers' Championship.

What's Next:

Krack stated the team will "take it event by event, try to maximize every event" moving forward. They will analyze the issues from Monza to ensure better performance and strategy in upcoming races.