F1 star withdraws from Spanish Grand Prix as official statement released

A Formula 1 star has pulled out of the Spanish Grand Prix, less than 24 hours before lights out.

On Saturday afternoon, McLaren star Oscar Piastri produced a masterclass as he qualified on pole position ahead of teammate Lando Norris and Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen.

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton had a brilliant Q3 to put his Ferrari in fifth place, two places ahead of teammate Charles Leclerc.

However, less than 24 hours away from the start of the Grand Prix, one driver has been forced to pull out.

An official statement was released by Aston Martin, confirming Lance Stroll's shock withdrawal.

It read: "Over the course of the past six weeks Lance has been experiencing pain in his hand and wrist, which his medical consultant believes is in relation to the procedure he underwent in 2023.

"As a result his medical team have confirmed that he will not race tomorrow and he will undergo a procedure to rectify these issues before focusing on his recovery."

The Canadian had originally qualified in 14th place.

Stroll's teammate, Fernando Alonso, will start the race in 10th place.

Speaking after qualifying, the Spaniard said: "It's been a good weekend so far, and getting into Q3 shows we are in the fight for points. It's the third consecutive Q3 for us so I'm pleased with that.

"We've made some progress since Miami where we were fighting at the back and Barcelona is always a true test. It shows our update package has given us a step forward."

Alonso added: "Hopefully we can finish the job tomorrow, especially here at home in front of this amazing support."

Spanish Grand Prix starting grid:

1) Oscar Piastri

2) Lando Norris

3) Max Verstappen

4) George Russell

5) Lewis Hamilton

6) Kimi Antonelli

7) Charles Leclerc

8) Pierre Gasly

9) Isack Hadjar

10) Fernando Alonso

11) Alex Albon

12) Gabriel Bortoleto

13) Liam Lawson

14) N/A

15) Oliver Bearman

16) Nico Hulkenberg

17) Esteban Ocon

18) Carlos Sainz

19) Franco Colapinto

20) Yuki Tsunoda