diff --git a/python/tests/test_0_complex_or_slow.py b/python/tests/test_0_complex_or_slow.py
index 034839ee5..2e19c5e6c 100644
--- a/python/tests/test_0_complex_or_slow.py
+++ b/python/tests/test_0_complex_or_slow.py
@@ -106,8 +106,13 @@ class TestGroupStressTests:
         msg = ac2._evtracker.wait_next_incoming_message()
 
         lp.sec("ac1: removing ac3")
+        ac1._evtracker.consume_events()
         chat.remove_contact(ac3)
 
+        # Ensure the message is not pending,
+        # so we will reference it in the In-Reply-To.
+        ac1._evtracker.get_matching("DC_EVENT_SMTP_MESSAGE_SENT")
+
         lp.sec("ac1: adding ac2 back")
         # Group is promoted, message is sent automatically
         assert chat.is_promoted()