Felipe Drugovich, a driver affiliated with Aston Martin Formula 1, has secured a permanent spot in the Vector Sport team in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS). He will be driving the Vector’s Oreca-07 Gibson alongside co-drivers Ryan Cullen and Stephane Richelmi. This opportunity arose after Drugovich replaced Gabriel Aubry, who had been previously announced as part of the team. Drugovich, a 23-year-old Brazilian, had been serving as a reserve for Aston Martin in F1 and will continue in that role while competing in the ELMS.
Drugovich expressed his excitement in joining Vector Sport and ELMS. He praised the team’s history and quality and looks forward to working with them. He believes that, together with his co-drivers, they can achieve success with the Oreca number 10. Drugovich is eager to return to real racing and combine his track experience with his passion for endurance. He also mentioned that his commitment to Aston Martin F1 as a reserve driver remains unchanged.
Drugovich’s decision to participate in the ELMS is aligned with his goal of keeping his options open for a future F1 seat. Despite reportedly turning down opportunities in IndyCar and Formula E, he chose to remain as a reserve driver for Aston Martin. However, his chances of securing a spot in F1 at Silverstone seem limited, with a potential seat possibly reserved for Lawrence Stroll’s son, Lance, and the other potentially going to Fernando Alonso or another established driver. Nevertheless, competing in the ELMS with an LMP2 prototype could position Drugovich well for a spot in Aston Martin’s Valkyrie project in 2025.
Meanwhile, Drugovich will focus on his ELMS campaign, as well as simulator work and limited testing for Aston Martin in Formula 1. He may also have the opportunity to participate in FP1 sessions.
