Aston Martin has formally announced the departure of long-time reserve driver Felipe Drugovich, marking the end of a three-year association that began when the team launched its Driver Development Program in 2022. The 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend is his final outing with the team.
Drugovich, the 2022 FIA Formula 2 champion, played a central role in simulator work, testing programmes and occasional FP1 appearances. Despite strong internal praise, the lack of a future race seat pushed him toward a new direction.
He will join Andretti Global in Formula E from the 2026 season.
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Drugovich pursues competitive racing again with Andretti
Aston Martin shared a farewell team photo on social media featuring Drugovich seated on the AMR25, along with a message thanking him for his contributions and wishing him success in the next stage of his career.
Drugovich signed with Andretti last month, choosing Formula E as his platform for a full-time return to wheel-to-wheel racing.
Team principal Andy Cowell said the move reflects Drugovich’s desire to compete again rather than remain in a reserve capacity.
“Felipe was with the team for several years and was a really great asset. He was keen to get back into racing, so I, and everyone else, was very keen that he could get that opportunity and enjoy Formula E.”
Cowell added that Aston Martin’s current driver stability played a role in the decision.
“We are fortunate to have Lance and Fernando under contract for next year, which gives us stability at a time when the regulations are changing dramatically.”
With no race seat available for 2026, the team supported Drugovich’s decision to pursue a competitive programme elsewhere.
Jack Crawford steps in as Aston Martin’s new third driver
Aston Martin has confirmed that junior driver Jack Crawford will replace Drugovich as the third driver in 2026. Crawford is currently in contention for the Formula 2 title, trailing championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli by 19 points.
If he secures the F2 crown, Crawford would enter the F1 paddock next year as reigning champion, aligning with Aston Martin’s continued youth development strategy.
Drugovich’s exit closes a significant chapter for both sides, ending a period of close technical collaboration while opening the door for his full-time return to racing.
