Drugovich Eyes Potential F1 Return Despite Formula E Move

Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 Formula 2 champion, is keeping his options open for a return to the Formula 1 paddock in 2026, even as he embarks on a new chapter in Formula E with Andretti. After a period as a reserve driver for Aston Martin, Drugovich is focused on his new full-time racing role but acknowledges that the pinnacle of motorsport remains a possibility for the future.

Why it matters:

• Drugovich's situation highlights the challenging path for F2 champions to secure F1 seats, often leading talented drivers to explore other top-tier racing categories like Formula E.
• His continued interest in F1, despite a new commitment, shows the enduring allure of the sport for drivers who have come close to breaking into the grid.
• A potential return in 2026 could coincide with significant regulation changes in F1, potentially offering a fresh opportunity for drivers with diverse experience.

The Details:

• Drugovich won the 2022 Formula 2 championship but faced a stagnant F1 driver market, leading him to a reserve driver role with Aston Martin alongside Stoffel Vandoorne.
• He has now transitioned to Formula E, joining Andretti to race alongside Jake Dennis for the final year of the Gen 3.5 car.
• Aston Martin Departure: GPblog previously reported Drugovich's departure from Aston Martin's driver pool from 2026, a move confirmed by the team as Jak Crawford takes over the third driver role.
• F1 Ambitions: Despite his Formula E focus, Drugovich stated during testing in Valencia, "On the Formula 1 side there's nothing at the moment. I have to wait until that championship is also finished and then see whether it makes sense for me or not."
• Formula E Debut: Drugovich has experience in Formula E rookie tests and made his race debut in Berlin, replacing Nyck de Vries.
• Return to Full-Time Racing: A key motivation for his Formula E move is the desire to return to a full-time race seat after nearly three years without consistent racing.
  • Andretti team principal Roger Griffiths noted Drugovich's renewed energy, contrasting it with his F1 simulator work, which was less fulfilling as he was preparing a car for others.

What's next:

Drugovich is fully committed to his Formula E season with Andretti, where he is expected to learn quickly, particularly the nuances of tire management in the electric series. While his current focus is firmly on success in Formula E, the door to Formula 1 in 2026 remains slightly ajar.

• His performance in Formula E could serve as a platform to re-establish his profile and prove his racing prowess in a competitive environment.
• The 2026 F1 regulations overhaul could present new opportunities for teams to evaluate fresh talent, making Drugovich's continued interest strategically timed.
• Ultimately, his future in F1 will depend on how his Formula E campaign unfolds and the opportunities that arise as the 2026 F1 season approaches.