After finishing seventh in 2022, Aston Martin made a major leap forward to second in the constructors’ championship after three races thanks to Fernando Alonso’s third straight podium.

This is the most significant year-on-year improvement for an F1 team in many seasons, but Stroll’s ambitions go far beyond that.

The Canadian billionaire has been building a team to compete for the world title over the next few years by poaching top talent from rival teams, including former Red Bull aviation chief Dan Fallows.

The team’s major redevelopment is reflected in the construction of a new £200m state-of-the-art Silverstone headquarters, the first stage of which is due to open next month.

Even as he applauded the team’s progress in 2023, Clark revealed that Stroll wasted no time asking for more.

“It was easy. Lawrence’s mission statement was very clear. He told us without delay: ‘When are we going to win the next race?'” When asked how Stroll reacted to the team’s success, Clark replied. .

“Obviously he’s happy that we’ve taken the step, but it’s not enough to live up to his ambitions.

“The nice thing about Lawrence is you know where you stand. He wants more and we’re going to have to give more.”

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin F1 Team, third, podium

Photography: Mark Sutton/ motorsport pictures

Aston Martin’s renaissance begins with the 2022 season, and it has come a long way after a disappointing start.

Asked if the team could maintain a similar pace of development this season, Clarke said: “We managed to develop the car substantially last year. This year we’re starting from a higher baseline, so it won’t be as easy as last year. .

“But if we want to stay where we are, we have to make progress because even if we do nothing, we will go backwards.

“I’m pretty confident we can bring performance upgrades to the car, but because it’s all related. We’ll only do it in time if it’s more or less efficient.

“I think we have a rough idea of ​​what we have to do, and that’s already started.”