Drugovich set for Formula E debut with Mahindra at Berlin E-Prix

©MahindraRacing

40

Aston Martin F1 reserve driver Felipe Drugovich is swapping Team Silverstone’s bench for the high-voltage world of Formula E, making his eagerly awaited debut in the all-electric series with Mahindra Racing at next week’s Berlin E-Prix double-header.

The 2022 FIA F2 champion steps in for Nyck de Vries, who is committed to Toyota’s World Endurance Championship campaign at the 6 Hours of São Paulo, marking a new chapter for the Brazilian talent on the iconic Tempelhof Airport circuit.

Though Drugovich has tested Formula E cars with Maserati during rookie tests in Berlin in both 2023 and 2024, this marks his first competitive outing in the series.

“I’m very happy to confirm I will be making my Formula E debut with Mahindra Racing in Berlin,” Drugovich said.

“Formula E is a championship I’ve been around for a while now; having tested on several occasions, I’m excited to now get the opportunity to race.”

“Mahindra Racing is a fantastic team, one of the championship’s standout names, and it’s clear from their recent results that the new car is a significant step forward. I’m looking forward to working closely with them to prepare for Berlin, and I’m sure we can have a good weekend together.”

Mahindra’s Strong Comeback and Confident Support

Mahindra Racing has seen a resurgence this season following the introduction of the Gen3 Evo car, climbing from 10th in the standings last year to fifth in the current 2024/25 campaign. Both Nyck de Vries and teammate Edoardo Mortara have already scored podiums this season, highlighting the team’s growing competitiveness.

Frederic Bertrand, Mahindra’s team principal, welcomed Drugovich onboard for the Berlin double-header.

“It’s very exciting to be able to welcome Felipe to the team for the Berlin E-Prix,” he said.

“It’s been on our radar for a while now that we would need to find a solution for Berlin to substitute for Nyck. Felipe quickly emerged as the standout candidate, his achievements speak for themselves, and he’s been very impressive when he’s tested a Formula E car in the past.

“The benefit of having this confirmed so far in advance is that we have had plenty of time to get him fully integrated with the team, to prepare him properly for the race weekend and give him the best opportunity to go out and showcase what he can do.”

Read also: McLaren to exit Formula E to focus on WEC Hypercar ambitions

Since winning the F2 title in 2022, Drugovich has had limited racing opportunities, combining his role as Aston Martin’s F1 reserve driver with endurance racing ventures, including the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2025 with Cadillac.

His upcoming Formula E debut with Mahindra marks another significant step as he broadens his racing portfolio across different top-level motorsport disciplines.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook

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.