Racing Point Force India have officially confirmed the signing of Lance Stroll alongside Sergio Perez for the 2019 season.
The signing of Stroll to Force India has been all-but-confirmed for several weeks, but the team have now formally announced that the 20-year-old has signed a “long-term deal”, replacing Esteban Ocon.
Force India fell into administration half-way through the season, and a consortium led by Lawrence Stroll – Lance’s father – brought the team out of administration, changing the team name from Sahara Force India to Racing Point Force India.
From there, Lance Stroll has been a near-certainty for the seat, and tested for the team in the post-season test at Abu Dhabi this week.
“I’m pleased that we can finally confirm Lance’s arrival to race alongside Sergio next year. It gives us an exciting line-up with the perfect blend of youth, talent, and experience,” said Force India team principal and CEO Otmar Szafnauer.
“Lance is only twenty and already has two years of Formula One experience under his belt, as well as a podium finish and a front row start. We see huge potential in Lance and believe we can create an environment in which he can flourish. Our team has enjoyed great success nurturing and developing young and talented drivers, and we are very excited to begin our journey with Lance.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank Esteban Ocon for his contribution to the team over the last two seasons and wish him well for the future.”
Stroll ends a two-year spell at the Williams team, with whom he took his first Formula One podium – in 2016 at Baku – and a front-row start – in 2016 at Monza.
“This is the beginning of an incredibly exciting journey in my Formula One career. I look forward to working alongside a successful team with a great culture. It’s a new challenge and I am excited to embrace this new opportunity!”
