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

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.

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.