Drugovich wraps up F2 title – all eyes on F1

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Felipe Drugovich enjoyed an effortless coronation in the FIA Formula 2 Championship at Monza on Saturday.

The Brazilian driver was determined to clinch the title with a spirited drive in the day's sprint race, but a first-lap retirement after a collision with Amaury Cordeel at Turn 5 left Drugovich stranded on the pitwall watching the race's proceedings unfold.

Fortunately for the MP Motorsport charger, it was a short wait as a mistake on lap 14 by his single title rival Theo Pourchaire put the latter out of contention.

Drugovich's next step is to hang around the F1 paddock and sound out those teams – specifically Alpine and Williams – that still have available seats for 2023, while a reserve role with Aston Martin could also be on offer.

"There are few places still available in F1," said the 22-year-old.

"Obviously, it’s very difficult to get that main seat. We’re trying, but if not, we’ll try to get a reserve seat. For the moment, I’m just trying to get that main seat.

"Hopefully the news will be around quite a lot, I think that there are a lot of people cheering, especially because there’s no Brazilian in F1.

"I think if you go down the ladder, I’m the first one that they can pick and it’s special to get the job done for them.

"They’re really missing someone in F1 and hopefully, I can be there one day to represent the country."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.