The 2022 Formula 2 Champion, Felipe Drugovich, has joined Aston Martin’s newly created Driver Development Programme and will join their current roster of Reserve Drivers.
The Brazilian has never been affiliated with any Formula One team, giving him free choice to make his next steps after being unable to race in Formula 2 again after being crowned Champion.
The plan is for Drugovich to take part in Free Practice One during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, taking the place of Lance Stroll.
Throughout the 2023 season, he will be with the team during selected Grand Prix, while undertaking an extensive testing program behind the wheel of a 2021 car.
Felipe Drugovich on joining Aston Martin;
“Becoming a member of the AMF1 Driver Development Programme is a fantastic opportunity for me – and only adds to what has been an extremely enjoyable and successful 2022 season.
“Winning in Formula 2 has long been regarded as the best possible launchpad into a career in Formula One, and I see my role at AMF1 as giving me all the tools to take that crucial next step.
“For me, 2023 will be a learning curve: I will be working with the F1 team, but my primary goal is to learn and develop as a driver.
“I hope that will give me an opportunity to race in Formula One in the future.”
Mike Krack, Team Principal;
“Felipe has shown incredible talent, determination, and consistency to win this year’s FIA Formula 2 Championship – I particularly remember his fantastic Sprint and Feature victories at Barcelona in May, which were hugely impressive.
“We are delighted that he is joining us as a member of our Driver Development Programme, and we look forward to welcoming him as part of our team in Abu Dhabi this November.”
Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman;
“I am hugely proud to have inaugurated the AMF1 Driver Development Programme: I am a big believer in rewarding young talent, and this is a fantastic way to help develop the next generation of racing drivers.
“We have watched and admired Felipe’s path to success in Formula 2 this year, and we aim to provide him with all the skills and experience necessary to be able to take the next step in his career.
“In the fullness of time, it would be the ultimate validation if he were to become a Formula One driver, joining the great pantheon of Brazilian racing drivers such as Emerson Fittipaldi and Ayrton Senna.”