Lance Stroll made a bold move on Daniel Ricciardo on the penultimate lap of the Styrian Grand Prix on Sunday, although it perhaps was a little bit overambitious as the two almost collided.
The BWT Racing Point Formula One Team racer had been stuck behind the Renault DP World F1 Team racer for much of the second half of the race at the Red Bull Ring, but made a late dive to the inside of the Australian heading into turn three.
Both drivers went off track in the move, and despite an investigation from the stewards, it was deemed a legal move, even though it allowed McLaren F1 Team’s Lando Norris the chance to pass both. Stroll finished the race seventh to score his first points of the season.
Despite the investigation, Stroll believes the move was legal, and finishing ahead of Ricciardo saw his patience rewarded.
“We started the race strongly and settled into it quickly, making up some places,” said Stroll. “We managed to close in on the Renaults ahead too.
“The second stint was a little trickier and it was very difficult to pass Daniel Ricciardo because he was strong on the entry and exit of Turn 1. But I was patient and I saw an opportunity to pass him on the final lap and made the move stick.
“That was such an exciting end to the race and I hope the fans at home enjoyed it as much as we did.”
The Canadian was pleased with just how competitive the RP20 was on race day, with Stroll making early gains from a lowly grid slot to run inside the points, and it gives him confidence heading into the upcoming races.
“The car was competitive today and we performed strongly against our rivals,” he said. “That’s promising for the coming races.”
