Williams to change Stroll’s gearbox after practice crash

Williams have confirmed that they are changing the gearbox on Lance Stroll’s FW40 following the Canadian rookie’s crash in FP3.

Stroll brought out the red flags in the closing stages of final practice after running wide and hitting the barriers on the exit of Turn 10.

As well as requiring a gearbox change, Williams say Stroll’s car also suffered front suspension and front wing damage in the accident, meaning the team face a race against time to repair it in time for Saturday afternoon’s qualifying session.

Stroll is now also expected to be hit with a five-place grid penalty ahead of his maiden race, with F1's sporting regulations requiring drivers to use the same gearbox for six consecutive events. An event comprises final practice, qualifying and the race.