Aston Martin F1 signed a contract with Felipe Drugovic, who secured the title of Formula 2 champion ahead of schedule last weekend. The Brazilian will be the first person invited by the team to its driver training program. The goal of the program is to help young drivers get into Formula 1.
In particular, this suggests that Felipe will become one of the reserve drivers of the team, and it has already been decided that in Abu Dhabi he will replace Lance Stroll in the first Friday practice, and will also pilot the Aston Martin car in the youth tests, which will be held at Yas- Marina after the end of the season.
In 2023, Drugovic will have an intensive test program behind the wheel of the AMR21, the car that was used last season. Also, together with the team, he will come to some Grand Prix.
Felipe Drugovic: “I will become a member of the Aston Martin driver training program, which opens up great prospects for me. The 2022 season has been very successful for me, and this will make its ending even more pleasant.
Winning the F2 Championship has long been considered the best jumping off point for Formula 1 and my new role with Aston Martin F1 will give me all the tools I need to take the next big step in my career.
In 2023, I have a lot to learn: I will work with a team, but the main goal is to improve my professional skills. I hope that in the future I will get the opportunity to compete in Formula 1.”
Mike CrackTeam Principal: “Felipe showed incredible talent and dedication, achieving very consistent results to win the Formula 2 title. I especially remember his impressive wins in both races at the May round in Barcelona.
We are delighted to have him as part of our driver training program and look forward to having him join our team for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November.”
Lawrence Stroll, Chairman of the Board of Directors: “I am very proud that we announced the launch of the Aston Martin F1 driver training program. I am convinced that young talents need to be helped, and this is a great way to support the next generation of riders.
This year we have been following Felipe’s progress in Formula 2 and intend to give him the opportunity to gain all the skills and experience he needs to take the next step in his career.
This will allow us to assess over time whether he is ready to become a Formula 1 driver and join the glorious cohort of Brazilian drivers such as Emerson Fittipaldi and Ayrton Senna.