Drogovic confirmed as reserve driver for Aston Martin

Now it’s official! Felipe Drogovic announced by Aston Martin on Monday as the team’s reserve driver as well as being the first member of the team’s Young Driver Development Program at Formula 1.

The Brazilian became the Formula 2 champion this weekend in Italy, where he was also seen inside the team’s facilities, intensifying rumors of a deal between the driver and the team.

Aston Martin announced on Monday that Drogovic has joined the Young Drivers Program and will make his FP1 debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which concludes the 2022 season.

Drugovich is also set for an extensive testing program as part of the role that will see him participate in the post-Abu Dhabi season as well as gain track time in the car from 2021 through next year. He will also participate in select races to support the 2023 drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.

“Becoming a member of the AMF1 Driver Development Program is an amazing opportunity for me and only adds to what has been a very interesting and successful 2022 season,” said Drogovic.

“Winning in Formula 2 is the best possible starting point for a career in Formula 1 and seeing my role in AMF1 gives me all the tools to take the next decisive step.

“For me, 2023 will be a learning curve: I will be working with the F1 team, but my main goal is to learn and develop as a driver. I hope this will give me the opportunity to race in Formula 1 in the future.”

Drogovic joins the pool of reserve drivers available for Aston Martin in Formula 1, which also includes Nico Hulkenberg, who replaced Sebastian Vettel for the first two races of the 2022 season, and Haas next year.

“Philippe has shown incredible talent, determination and fortitude to win this year’s FIA Formula 2 Championship,” said Mike Krake, Aston Martin Formula 1 Team Principal.

“I especially remember his great races and victories in Barcelona in May, which were very impressive.

“We are delighted that he has joined us as a member of our Driver Development Program and look forward to welcoming him as part of our team in Abu Dhabi in November.”

Aston Martin CEO Lawrence Stroll felt the creation of the Young Drivers Program was “a great way to help develop the next generation of racing drivers”.

“We have seen and admired Felipe’s path to success in Formula 2 this year and intend to provide him with all the skills and experience he needs to be able to take the next step in his career,” Stroll added.

“Over time, it will be the ultimate validation if he becomes a Formula 1 driver, joining a large group of Brazilian drivers such as Emerson Fittipaldi and Ayrton Senna.”

Podcast #194 – What will be the future of Felipe Drogovic?

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