Formula 1 News: Drugovich could also be Sauber reserve in ’25

(GMM) Felipe Drugovich’s chances of racing in Formula 1 this year may just have doubled as he could serve as Reserve Driver for two different F1 teams.

Since winning the F2 title in 2022, the 24-year-old Brazilian has failed to make the step up to Formula 1 – instead serving merely as Aston Martin’s reserve.

New Red Bull driver Liam Lawson told the Pitstop podcast last week: “If anybody is deserving a seat right now, it’s Drugovich.

“His free practice in Abu Dhabi (in 2023) was quicker than (Lance) Stroll,” he added. “Then last year I think he was quicker than Fernando (Alonso).”

The Swiss newspaper Blick now reports that, although Aston Martin uses Mercedes engines, Drugovich might also be on standby for Ferrari-powered Sauber this year in the event the Swiss team needs a substitute driver.

“The decision would be made between two drivers,” highly respected journalist Roger Benoit wrote. “Felipe Drugovich, who has been hoping for a chance at Aston Martin for three years, or Antonio Giovinazzi, who Ferrari is letting travel around the world as a replacement.”