Drugovich Savors Le Mans Debut, Weighs Endurance Racing Future
In a recent interview, Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin’s Formula 1 reserve driver, expressed his enthusiasm for his Le Mans 24 Hours debut and the possible opportunities it may bring. As he navigates the world of endurance racing, Drugovich is weighing his options between remaining in sportscar racing or returning to single-seaters.
The 2022 Formula 2 champion made his inaugural appearance at the iconic French endurance classic last weekend, driving the #311 Cadillac V-Series.R in the Hypercar class alongside IMSA SportsCar Championship regulars Pipo Derani and Jack Aitken. Despite finishing 15th in class, the experience left a lasting impression on Drugovich.
“I don’t know yet,” Drugovich said when asked about his future in formula cars or prototypes. “For sure, I enjoyed [Le Mans] really a lot. It’s a really cool world, and I’m enjoying it. Also, this race can sometimes open some doors. We will see what is going to happen. For the moment, I’m really happy with the opportunities I have.”
As part of his 2024 campaign, Drugovich is set to compete in the ELMS with Vector Sport LMP2 squad, but there are no current plans for him to participate in additional WEC or IMSA races with Cadillac. However, the General Motors brand has only signed two drivers for the full-season in its sole Hypercar entry, leaving the last remaining seat open for race-by-race decisions or potentially vacant for shorter events.
The Brazilian driver emphasized his interest in competing in more endurance races, stating, “These 24 hour races have always been kind of a dream for me, so I’m really happy [to take part in them].” After spending the 2023 season on the sidelines, focusing on his test and reserve duties with Aston Martin in F1, Drugovich is rejuvenated and eager to continue racing.
“I was buzzing to get back racing again this year, and so happy to be back doing ELMS and especially [Le Mans], this is something impressive,” he said. “It’s just a massive opportunity given from Cadillac. It’s not everywhere that a manufacturer puts a rookie driver into a hypercar, especially at Le Mans. So very grateful to them.”
As he explores the FIA WEC 2024 season, Drugovich’s experience at Le Mans may indeed “open some doors” for him, potentially leading to more opportunities in the world of endurance racing. For now, he remains focused on his ELMS campaign and the prospect of additional Hypercar outings.
Published on Autosport.
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