Lawrence Stroll eyes Aston Martin
A possible return of Aston Martin to Formula 1 as a team? Likely after recent rumors of a possible acquisition of the British brand by Lawrence Stroll.
It is the site Racefans.net that revealed that the current owner of Racing Point, Lawrence Stroll, is interested in acquiring Aston Martin with the goal of turning it into a Formula 1 team. But what is the reason for this?
This acquisition would be possible thanks to a specific event: Aston Martin’s entry into the London Stock Exchange, which reportedly caused its share to drop from 19 pounds sterling to 5. A drop that allows businessmen to consider injecting money into the British brand. And there’s one who saw an opportunity to make a big move. This man is none other than Lawrence Stroll. Known in the Formula 1 world for having bought Force India in 2018 and placing his son in his team.
The new target for the Canadian would be Aston Martin, with which he plans to turn it into a Formula 1 team. Racing Point would serve as the foundation, and the Canadian team would change colors to be renamed Aston Martin. If this happens, Racing Point would undoubtedly become the Formula 1 team that has changed its name the most times in history. Jordan, Midland, Spyker, Force India, Racing Point, so many changes of ownership for the small Silverstone outfit.
What might motivate Aston Martin to return to Formula 1 after having competed in four races in the 1960s? First of all, the commercial asset that F1 represents. It’s undeniable, the premier category of motor racing is the best showcase for a manufacturer, especially to prove that it is better than its competitors. Another reason might be a frustrating partnership with Red Bull. Indeed, the British brand has been the sponsor of the Austrian team since 2016, but more importantly the title sponsor since 2018. However, this partnership could come to an end due to the recent alliance between the Grove outfit and Honda as an engine supplier, which sidelines the luxury manufacturer. With a team bearing its name, Aston Martin wouldn’t have to worry about another manufacturer encroaching on its territory.
Although a fifth manufacturer would be welcome in Formula 1, some minor constraints could hinder Lawrence Stroll’s project. Firstly, Aston Martin has already announced its commitment to participate in the World Endurance Championship in 2021 with the new Hypercar. With F1, this would make two major championships for the British manufacturer, which may not have the firepower necessary to be competitive in both disciplines. A choice will therefore have to be made, and it is on the WEC that Aston Martin will focus. Secondly, and still related to the WEC, the Hypercar that the English brand intends to use is the Valkyrie. A car developed with the help of Red Bull. It remains to be seen what the consequences will be of Aston Martin’s potential entry into the WEC and its partnership with Red Bull.
