"Thinking about Canada and Drake": Lance Stroll's love for Drake proves his Canadian pride

The F1 75 livery launch event at London’s O2 Arena on February 18 was a spectacle that thrilled Formula 1 enthusiasts. Featuring performances from Machine Gun Kelly and composer-turned-DJ Brian Tyler, the evening was packed with energy and excitement. Yet, Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll had a different vision for the entertainment lineup.

Lance Stroll, known for his Canadian pride and eclectic music taste, would have preferred a more personal touch—headlined by none other than fellow Canadian, Drake. Speaking on the Fast and the Curious podcast, he expressed his preference, saying, “Drake would be a good time here. Just, you know, thinking about Canada and Drake. Everyone likes Drake… but not Kendrick Lamar,” humorously referencing the famous feud between the two rap icons.

From a marketing perspective, featuring Drake at the F1 75 event could have been a masterstroke. Kendrick Lamar had recently dazzled audiences with his electrifying Super Bowl halftime show, and F1’s grand event would have been the perfect stage for Drake to show his charisma. Not only would it have amplified the entertainment quotient, but it also would have resonated with fans across the globe, capitalizing on Drake’s universal appeal.
However, Stroll’s admiration for Drake goes beyond strategic marketing. It stems from his genuine appreciation for the rapper’s music. This bond was clearly visible in 2020 when F1 launched a segment allowing drivers to curate their own playlists. Unsurprisingly, Drake featured prominently on Stroll’s list. Moreover, when asked which three albums he would take to a desert island, Stroll chose Drake’s ‘More Life’ alongside Post Malone’s ‘Beerbongs & Bentleys’ and the Rolling Stones’ ‘Let It Bleed.’
Although his fondness for Drake is evident, Lance Stroll isn’t limited to the hip-hop genre. The 26-year-old Canadian boasts an impressive and diverse music taste. His playlist includes pop sensations like Katy Perry, legends such as Sir Elton John, and even classic rock icons like Queen. Yet, it is clear that the rhythm and blues (R&B) and hip-hop genres resonate most with him. Notably, Stroll’s very first record purchase was from 50 Cent, cementing his love for the genre from an early age.
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Had F1 taken a page from Stroll’s music playbook, the livery launch could have turned into a legendary evening. While Machine Gun Kelly and Brian Tyler certainly brought flair, one can’t help but imagine the electric atmosphere if Drake had headlined the event. Perhaps, F1 will take note of Stroll’s vision in the future, delivering a Canadian touch that would undoubtedly hit all the right notes.