Aston Martin FINALLY Unveils Reverse Driver for 2025 Formula 1 Season
Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team has officially announced that Felipe Drugovich will continue as their Test and Reserve Driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season. This decision underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining a robust driver lineup as they aim for greater success in the upcoming championship.
Drugovich, a Brazilian driver who clinched the Formula 2 championship in 2022, joined Aston Martin’s driver development program later that year. Since then, he has been an integral part of the team’s operations, contributing both on and off the track. His involvement has included participating in five Free Practice 1 (FP1) sessions and three end-of-season tests. Notably, in 2023, he stepped in for an injured Lance Stroll during pre-season testing in Bahrain, showcasing his readiness to support the team when needed.
In his role as Test and Reserve Driver, Drugovich will continue to alternate duties with Stoffel Vandoorne, a former McLaren driver who has also been confirmed for another season with Aston Martin. Together, they will attend Grand Prix events throughout the 2025 season, providing essential support to the main drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Their responsibilities will encompass assisting with simulator development, contributing to car improvements, and being prepared to race should either of the primary drivers be unavailable.
Mike Krack, Team Principal of Aston Martin, emphasized the significance of Drugovich’s role, stating, “Felipe has been an essential member of our team since he joined, and we are very pleased to continue working with him in 2025—he is a true asset.”
Drugovich expressed his enthusiasm about continuing with the team, saying, “I am obviously very happy to stay with Aston Martin Aramco for a third full season as a test and reserve driver. There is a lot of momentum in this team, and I am excited to see what we can achieve together. The incredible new facilities at AMRTC, including the state-of-the-art simulator, demonstrate the ambition here, and I am determined to be part of Aston Martin Aramco’s long-term success. As always, I want to thank the team for their continued support.”
The decision to retain Drugovich aligns with Aston Martin’s broader strategy to solidify its position as a top-tier team in Formula 1. In recent seasons, the team has made significant strides, with Fernando Alonso securing multiple podium finishes and consistently challenging for top positions. However, with formidable competitors like Red Bull, Mercedes, and Ferrari also vying for supremacy, every resource and strategic decision becomes crucial.
Having a capable and well-prepared reserve driver is not just a contingency plan but a vital component of a team’s strategy in modern Formula 1. The role encompasses more than just being on standby; it involves active participation in the team’s development processes, providing valuable feedback from simulator sessions, and contributing to the refinement of race strategies. This comprehensive involvement ensures that the team remains competitive and adaptable throughout the season.
Drugovich’s journey with Aston Martin began in 2022 when he joined their driver development program after a stellar performance in Formula 2. His rapid integration into the team and subsequent contributions have demonstrated his professionalism and skill. His experience in various testing sessions and readiness to step in during unforeseen circumstances have proven his value to the team.
The collaboration between Drugovich and Vandoorne as alternating Test and Reserve Drivers provides Aston Martin with a robust support system. Their combined experience and insights are invaluable assets, particularly in the highly competitive environment of Formula 1. Their roles are crucial in refining the car’s performance, developing race strategies, and ensuring that the team can maintain its competitive edge, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
As the 2025 season approaches, Aston Martin’s strategic decisions, including the retention of key personnel like Drugovich, reflect their ambition and commitment to achieving excellence. The team’s focus on leveraging the strengths of their drivers, both primary and reserve, positions them well to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season and strive for top honors in the championship.
Felipe Drugovich’s continued role as Test and Reserve Driver for Aston Martin in 2025 signifies the team’s dedication to building a strong and versatile driver lineup. His contributions, alongside those of his colleagues, are expected to play a pivotal role in Aston Martin’s pursuit of success in the forthcoming Formula 1 season.
