Sprint Qualifying nightmare for Aston Martin in Miami: Stroll sets no time, Alonso last and even slower than the slowest F2 qualifier
A nightmare weekend for Aston Martin, and this time the numbers paint an even worse picture than anyone could have imagined. In Sprint Qualifying, the Silverstone-based team hit one of the lowest points of its season so far: Lance Stroll failed to set a lap time altogether, while Fernando Alonso could only manage a dismal 1:41:311 — more than ten seconds slower than Valtteri Bottas, who qualified in 20th place.
Outside the 107% rule, but the FIA gives Aston Martin the green light
The situation was made even worse by another comparison that leaves little doubt about the difficulties Aston Martin is currently facing. Alonso, in fact, posted a time even slower than the driver who finished last in Formula 2 qualifying, whose best lap was a 1:41:157.
Such a result could have even jeopardized Alonso and Stroll’s participation in Saturday’s Sprint. Neither Aston Martin car, in fact, managed to stay within 107% of the fastest lap time — a requirement normally needed to be allowed to race.
What saved the British team was the only practice session held before Sprint Qualifying. Both Alonso and Stroll had posted competitive lap times during FP1, remaining within the regulatory threshold. For that reason, the FIA decided to allow both cars to take part in the Sprint. An embarrassment avoided — but one that does nothing to hide the deeply concerning technical situation at the Silverstone-based team.
Photos: Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team
