Toto Wolff reckons Aston Martin could be a formidable force in 2023

The Mercedes team boss expects Aston Martin to compete at the top of the grid this season.

Toto Wolff reckons Aston Martin could be a formidable force in 2023

Toto Wolff, Fernando Alonso

The Formula 1 Pre-season test has concluded. Usually, such testing is not seen as a viable parameter to analyze the pecking order of the grid. But there lies one team in particular that has raised eyebrows throughout the pitlane. The Aston Martin F1 team has been reckoned as a formidable challenger for the upcoming season by Mercedes Team Principle Toto Wolff.

Recently, Wolff expressed his belief about the Silverstone-based team. The 51-year-old stated, “According to our calculations, Aston Martin could end up in second place.” Although the British team uses the same engine and a few other listed components as Mercedes. It seems that Lawrence Stroll’s squad can gain an edge over the Silver Arrows this season.

Alonso joined Aston Martin after replacing a retiring Sebastian Vettel

Additionally, Fernando Alonso has appreciated the efforts at Aston Martin. The Spanish driver has been impressed by the work done over the winter by his new team. Subsequently, Alonso stated, “Our new car has a completely different philosophy. The platform is significantly better than a year ago.” Thus, it seems that the Silverstone-based team has high expectations from AMR23.

Discover: A Sebastian Vettel return on the cards for Aston Martin in place of injured Lance Stroll

Aston Martin’s Felipe Drugovich does impressive work during Pre-season testing

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Drugovich driving the AMR23 during pre-season testing

Lance Stroll was forced to miss pre-season testing after a horrendous biking accident in Spain. Aston Martin reserve, Felipe Drugovich, replaced the Canadian driver for the running in Bahrain. The 22-year-old got to grips with the AMR23 from the get-go and gave his team satisfactory runs. However, it remains unclear whether Drugovich will continue at the season opener in Bahrain.

Interestingly, Sebastian Vettel has also been in the running to replace Stroll for the first race of the season. However, Team Principal Mike Krack has emphasized focusing on the Canadian driver’s return as the team’s priority. Aston Martin is presently waiting on the words from Lance and doctors regarding the 24-year-old’s return to the cockpit next week.

Toto Wolff and Mercedes expect Aston Martin to be in the running at the top of the grid this season. The Silverstone-based team has impressed the fans and experts with its 2023 challenger. However, it remains to be seen if this is carried over to the Bahrain Grand Prix, with the British already having the trouble of an unconfirmed driver line-up.

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