Lance Stroll will step outside his usual F1 environment this weekend to take on a fresh and demanding challenge in the 2026 GTWC Europe. At Circuit Paul Ricard, the Canadian will pilot an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO run by Comtoyou Racing in a six-hour endurance race.
Unlike the highly structured and intense world of F1, GT racing offers a different rhythm. Drivers share cars, manage traffic, and balance performance with consistency over long stints. For Stroll, this outing represents more than a one-off appearance—it offers a rare opportunity to explore a discipline where variables open the door to unpredictable outcomes.
Moreover, the move highlights a growing trend among top-tier single-seater drivers seeking additional racing opportunities beyond their primary commitments. With a short break in the F1 calendar, Stroll seized the moment to immerse himself in a new environment, one that blends competition with camaraderie.
A swift decision sparks a new challenge in 2026 GTWC Europe for Stroll
The idea to compete emerged unexpectedly but quickly gained momentum during the F1 Japanese Grand Prix. What began as a casual discussion soon transformed into a fully realised plan.
“The decision came when we were in Suzuka. On Saturday evening, we had dinner with some friends, and we were talking about what we could do during this break – about a month – because some races were cancelled.”
From there, events moved rapidly, thanks largely to the efforts of Jean-Michel Baert.
“Jean-Michel [Baert, Comtoyou team owner] was very accommodating, and we organised everything in about a week. Honestly, without Jean-Michel bringing everything together so quickly, it wouldn’t have been possible.”
Consequently, Stroll finds himself on the grid with minimal preparation but considerable enthusiasm.
Balancing fun and competitive ambition on debut weekend at Circuit Paul Ricard
While Stroll openly embraces the enjoyment factor of GT racing, he also recognises the competitive edge that makes the series appealing. The shared nature of endurance racing fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, yet the desire to succeed remains strong.
“I get to share the car with friends, so we laugh outside the car, enjoy ourselves inside the car, and the team is really great.”
At the same time, the possibility of achieving a strong result provides added motivation—something he feels is less accessible in F1.
“In F1, you don’t always have the opportunity to win. Here, it’s very competitive, but even if it’s our first time and we lack experience, if everything comes together – good setup, good feeling – winning is possible.”
“That doesn’t really exist in F1. That’s also a big motivation for me to be here.”.
Stroll on adapting to a different machine ahead of 2026 GTWC Europe debut
Transitioning from a F1 car to a GT3 machine demands significant adjustment. Stroll began that process with a recent test at the Nürburgring, reacquainting himself with GT racing after a decade away.
“It’s different – less downforce, less power – but it moves more,” he explained. “You can attack kerbs more, which is different. And in traffic, you can follow cars much more closely than in F1.”
These differences require not only technical adaptation but also a shift in driving style and racecraft. Nevertheless, Stroll appears eager to embrace the challenge and potentially extend his involvement.
“If I feel good physically and mentally, I’d like to do more races during the year.”
Despite the contrasts, his core mindset remains unchanged.
“For me, whenever I’m in the car with my helmet on, whether it’s here, F1, or even karting, it’s always the same mindset. But here, it’s nice: fewer media duties, more time in the garage working with the team and just driving and enjoying it.”
Strong connections within the team
Stroll’s teammates, Roberto Merhi and Mari Boya, bring their own experience and potential to the line-up. Although neither has extensive GT World Challenge experience, both have competed at a high level.
“First, Roberto Merhi – I’ve known him for a long time. We didn’t race together, but we had the same engineers and connections,” said Stroll. “We recently spent time together in Japan, had dinner, and came up with this idea. Then there’s Mari Boya, an Aston Martin Academy driver. He’s very talented, not very experienced, but this is a great opportunity for him.”
As a result, the trio combines familiarity, emerging talent, and shared enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.
Verstappen’s influence and wider interest
The race also attracts attention from Max Verstappen, whose involvement in GT racing, particularly the #3 Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing entry, adds another layer of intrigue. His experience in the category proved useful during Stroll’s initial planning.
“[I spoke with Max] briefly in Suzuka when I had the idea,” said Stroll. “We talked about who to contact, and since he’s already involved in GT racing, we discussed it a bit. Everyone enjoys driving GT3 cars – they’re fun.”
Thus, the crossover between F1 and GT racing continues to grow, with drivers exploring opportunities across disciplines.
Stroll acknowledges team effort behind the scenes ahead of 2026 GTWC Europe debut
For Comtoyou Racing, securing a driver of Stroll’s calibre represents a significant endorsement of their work. Team owner Jean-Michel Baert emphasised the collective effort required to bring the programme together at short notice.
“Having someone like him choose our team is a huge recognition of our work — the mechanics, the engineers. We’re very proud and grateful for the trust,” said Baert.
Equally, Stroll’s attitude made a lasting impression from the outset.
“When Lance arrived, the first thing he said – before even saying hello – was: ‘Thank you for making this possible.’ That really meant a lot. It’s a challenge for everyone, but that gratitude will stay with me. I’ll pass that on to the team, because they made it happen.”
A weekend of opportunity at Circuit Paul Ricard
Ultimately, this weekend at Circuit Paul Ricard offers Stroll more than just a change of scenery. It provides a platform to rediscover the pure enjoyment of racing while competing in a format where outcomes remain less predictable.
As he adapts to new machinery, builds relationships within the team, and embraces the dynamics of endurance racing, Stroll positions himself to make the most of this unique opportunity. Whether he fights for victory or simply gains valuable experience, the weekend marks a compelling new chapter in his racing journey.
