Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has openly criticized Lance Stroll‘s reaction after the British Grand Prix, challenging the Canadian’s upbringing following his harsh comments about the Aston Martin car. Despite a strong performance at Silverstone, Stroll described his car as “the worst piece of sh*t” he had ever driven.
At the 2025 British GP, Lance Stroll demonstrated impressive skill, particularly in wet conditions that tested drivers’ abilities. Thanks to a well-timed strategic decision by Aston Martin’s team, Stroll was positioned near the podium during the race but ultimately finished in seventh place.
Though seventh place secured valuable points, Stroll’s post-race remarks were unexpectedly severe. After the race, he stated that his AMR25 vehicle was the worst he had ever driven. These comments sparked a strong reaction from Schumacher, who spoke about the issue on Sky Deutschland’s Backstage Pitlane podcast.
Ralf Schumacher challenges Lance Stroll’s reaction and calls for an apology
Ralf Schumacher did not hold back in his critique of Lance Stroll’s post-race statement. He questioned Stroll’s manners and upbringing, suggesting that the comments were inappropriate and detrimental to the driver’s own achievements. Schumacher also emphasized the importance of respecting the efforts of the entire team, including mechanics.
“I would hope that at the next race he goes and apologizes. It’s just a shame, unspeakable, and it indicates a poor upbringing. I don’t know what movie he thinks he is in, but such statements diminish his own results,” said Schumacher.
“These are important points, after all. One mustn’t forget: These are also important bonuses for the mechanics and the like,” he added.
Stroll had also made a pointed observation after the race, implying that Sauber’s car performed better at Silverstone compared to Aston Martin’s. Despite appreciating the smart strategy that helped him secure seventh place, he expressed his frustration over the car’s performance.
Recognizing Stroll’s skillful driving despite criticism
Despite his sharp criticism, Ralf Schumacher acknowledged Lance Stroll’s driving capabilities, especially during challenging conditions like those at the British GP. Schumacher admitted he might have been too harsh in his evaluation of Stroll in the past and recognized the driver’s fundamental ability to handle an F1 car effectively.
“We are often criticized for being too harsh on him, and maybe we are sometimes. But you could see, in these conditions, you have to be able to drive a car. And he can, fundamentally,” said Schumacher.
“How good, how bad – that’s a bit difficult to say. Alongside Fernando Alonso, who may be of a certain age but is still doing a good job. So, big compliments to the whole team,” he added.
Currently, Lance Stroll ranks 12th in the 2025 F1 Drivers’ Championship standings with 20 points, just ahead of his experienced teammate Fernando Alonso, who has faced several unlucky moments this season. The seventh-place finish in Great Britain marked Stroll’s first points-scoring race since the second round in China.
Stroll’s performance at Silverstone highlights his potential and tactical awareness, even if his post-race remarks have generated controversy. The incident raises questions about the pressures drivers face and their approach to communicating frustrations within high-stakes environments.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Which F1 driver has a billionaire dad? Lance Stroll is the only driver with a billionaire father, Lawrence Stroll.
A. Which F1 drivers have parents who are billionaires?