Aston Martin confirm Lance Stroll to miss pre-season F1 testing after bicycle accident

The 24-year-old is now a doubt for the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix next week

Aston Martin have confirmed Lance Stroll is out of F1 pre-season testing after a bicycle accident.

The Canadian-Belgian driver, entering his third season with the team, has sustained injuries in a minor accident, which rules him out of testing in Bahrain.

Aston Martin confirmed Stroll - son of team owner Lawrence Stroll - is expected to make a quick recovery and return to driving duties.

Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll was injured in a cycling accident (David Davies/PA) (PA Archive)

However, his presence at the Bahrain Grand Prix is still in doubt, with the team confirming there will be daily checks and updates ahead of next week’s season opener.

A statement read: “The team wishes Lance a speedy recovery and looks forward to his usual energy and commitment within the team.”

Stroll added: “I’ve had an unfortunate accident whilst training on my bike in preparation for the season.

“I am determined to get back in the car and I am excited about the season ahead with the team. I am motivated to bounce back from this setback as quickly as possible.”

Aston Martin have two reserve drivers in Formula E champion Stoffel Vandoorne and Formula 2 winner Felipe Drugovich to call upon if needed at testing.

However, Vandoorne is racing in Cape Town in FE this weekend while the team may look to give two-time world champion Fernando Alonso - who has joined from Alpine - more time in the car, given Stroll’s absence.

Testing takes place from 23-25 February before the first race of the new season a week later.