For Felipe Drugovich, patience is not passive. The reigning Formula 2 Champion has spent the last seasons balancing readiness with restraint — staying sharp for every possible opportunity while pushing forward in the simulator, on test days, and most recently, in Formula E.
When we meet in the Aston Martin hospitality, Drugovich’s calm confidence fills the room. There’s the air of someone who knows he’s done everything right — and just needs the right door to open.
“It’s been too many times that I got close.”
The Brazilian smiles when asked how he received the news about another free practice session with Aston Martin.
“I got the confirmation on Friday morning,” he recalls. “So I just came a little bit earlier to the track, got some prep done, as much as I could on such short notice. I’ve done a few FP1s already, so it wasn’t too different.”
Still, behind the smile lies the frustration of near-misses. Drugovich has come painfully close to an F1 race seat more than once — including during Lance Stroll’s pre-season cycling accident.
“Yeah, it’s been way too many times that I got close to it – many more than what people know,” he says candidly. “It sucks, but it is what it is. At the end of the day, I need to see it as another opportunity. Every FP1 is a good thing.”
That pragmatic mindset has helped him stay focused despite setbacks and stay ready for the moment the call finally comes.
The art of staying sharp
Keeping “race sharp” for Formula 1 while not racing in it is no easy task. Drugovich admits the challenge is as much mental as physical.
“It’s obviously difficult. Even for FP1s, people say I have a lot of experience already, but if you’re not racing the car all the time, jumping into Formula 1 is difficult, especially mid-season. To be close to the racing drivers like that, it’s already a really good thing for me.”
That hunger to drive never fades.
“I try to do my best to stay ready in case I need to race,” he continues. “Racing in other categories helps, that’s the main thing.”
Working alongside Fernando Alonso
One of the biggest privileges of being part of Aston Martin is, of course, working closely with Fernando Alonso. Drugovich lights up when discussing the two-time World Champion.
“It’s really cool to work with him, first of all, just to see how he works and to learn from that,” he says. “In terms of tips and stuff, not much, but I think he trusts my feedback. After the session, we spoke extensively about the car, and what I feel is essentially what he feels during the race. That’s a big compliment.”
That mutual respect has made Drugovich a trusted part of the team’s technical circle – both on track and in the simulator.
“Everything I do is for the good of the team,” he adds. “Normally, they really trust my feedback, and that’s a really good thing. I don’t know how much impact I have in the end, but for sure, I try to help.”
Looking beyond the reserve role
Drugovich has now spent multiple seasons in a reserve role – invaluable for experience, but limited in mileage. When asked if he would consider another year on the sidelines, his answer is honest.
“After three years of being a reserve, it’s not really what I’m looking for,” he admits. “It can be an option, but what I’m really looking for is driving and racing. I really miss that feeling.”
He’s keeping expectations measured, but the door to Formula 1 remains open, especially with a new team joining the grid next season.
“Obviously, it would be a dream come true if I could get to F1,” he says. “It’s too early to say what’s going on, but I’m doing my best to show I’m the right guy. Sessions like this are always useful to show what I can do, and to help the team at the same time.”
Inside the Aston Martin evolution
The Brazilian has had a front-row seat to Aston Martin’s rapid transformation and the influx of top engineering talent that has followed.
“It’s good to see so many people joining the team, and you can see the future in it,” he says. “People talk a lot about Adrian, and I think he’s really focused on the 2026 car. Hopefully, that has a big impact.”
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Drugovich has already been heavily involved in simulator work for the next generation of F1 machinery.
“I’ve been preparing more for it in the sim,” he explains. “Some drivers have concerns about drivability, but from my side, it feels okay. I’ve probably tested the 2026 tyres the most – two tests in Barcelona and Silverstone, and they behaved quite well. They’re a bit smaller, but still have a good grip. The car will have less downforce, but it’s the same for everyone.”
He notes that most concerns centre around the new power units.
“What’s concerning everyone a bit is how the engine is going to play out. It’s going to be much more of an engine fight — but everyone’s getting on top of it.”
Formula E: a new challenge, same mindset
Earlier this year, Drugovich made his Formula E debut – another important milestone in his already diverse career.
“It’s a pretty professional environment,” he says. “It’s like a mini F1 team, the way they work is very similar.”
The debut didn’t go entirely smoothly at first.
“At the beginning, I had penalties even before I started,” he laughs. “Nothing went the way I wanted until the last day. Then it all came together – I started from P19, was looking at a podium with a few laps to go, and finished P7. I was really happy with it.”
He pauses for a moment before summing up the experience with characteristic humility.
“It was something that showed me I still have more to give, and that’s a good thing.”
Always ready
Felipe Drugovich’s journey so far has been defined by preparation for opportunities that come late, suddenly, or not at all. Yet he meets each one with quiet professionalism and an unwavering belief in his own ability.
“I just try to do my job as best I can,” he says. “And when the right moment comes, I’ll be ready.”
