Aston Martin retains Drugovich as F1 reserve for 2024

©AstonMartin

Aston Martin has confirmed that Felipe Drugovich will continue in his role as test and reserve driver for the Silverstone-based outfit in 2024.

Furthermore, the 23-year-old Brazilian will drive for Aston Martin in Friday’s opening practice session at this month’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, replacing Fernando Alonso.

Drugovich already enjoyed an FP1 outing with Aston at Monza last September when he took over Lance Stroll’s car for the 60-minute session.

While without a racing programme this year, Drugovich has been busy with Aston throughout the season, conducting simulator work but also extensively testing with the team at various circuits onboard a 2021-spec AMR21.

Read also: Aston Martin not lost, not ‘rolling the dice’ – Krack

“I’m really proud to be continuing to work with Aston Martin for a second season,” said the former 2022 FIA Formula 2 champion.

“This year, I’ve learnt a huge amount – not just at the racetrack, but working with the engineers in the simulator and from the development programme that was designed for me.

“I’m proud of the contribution I’ve been able to make, and pleased that I’ve been able to help progress the development of AMR23.

“My focus now shifts towards preparing for the upcoming FP1 session at Abu Dhabi – I’m already looking forward to driving the AMR23 again – and to the work I’ll be doing with the engineers over the winter to prepare for 2024.”

Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack is delighted that team and driver will continue their collaboration in 2024.

“He’s a familiar face within the team, he understands the particular demands of the role, has a tremendous work ethic,” said Krack.

“And he has shown his speed and experience after stepping in superbly for an injured Lance Stroll during pre-season testing in Bahrain.

“Every time he gets behind the wheel, we clearly see the strength of his contribution. His pace, feedback and commitment are all extremely valuable to our engineers.

“We are already looking forward to him rounding out his season in style with another opportunity to drive the AMR23 during FP1 of the Abu Dhabi GP. We look forward to another productive season together next year.”

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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.