Felipe Drugovich Discusses His Role in Aston Martin’s 2026 F1 Car Development
During the recent Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix weekend, Felipe Drugovich shared insights about his involvement with Aston Martin’s car development for the upcoming 2026 season. This period marks a significant shift in technical regulations within the sport, and Drugovich is actively contributing to this transition. The Brazilian driver emphasized that his primary focus has been working with the simulator, a crucial aspect of the development process, although he acknowledged that many elements of the new regulations remain uncertain.
Drugovich explained, “My main role revolves around the simulator, where I am indeed working on the 2026 car. However, it is still early in the process. There are only a few virtual models of the car available at this stage.” He elaborated on the current situation, stating, “The primary focus will be on the engine for next year. The car itself will see some changes, but they won’t be as drastic as the transition from 2021 to 2022, and might even be somewhat less significant.”
Despite being engaged in the development process, Drugovich pointed out that the regulatory framework is not yet fully established, which restricts the depth of the work being done at this time. “While about 90% of the regulations are indeed settled, there are still aspects that are not entirely clear. It’s somewhat murky, and we can’t precisely gauge what the FIA will decide,” he added.
In addition to his long-term responsibilities for 2026, Drugovich has been closely monitoring the current season. Even when he is not on track, he remains deeply involved in the team’s activities. For example, at the Miami Grand Prix, he did not participate in any on-track sessions, yet he maintained a busy schedule behind the scenes.
“Typically, I start by participating in simulator sessions a few days before any race where I’m acting as a reserve. This helps me prepare and assist the team with setups, ensuring I’m ready to step in if needed,” Drugovich shared. He also mentioned his participation in all team meetings and briefings, which allows him to stay informed about the ongoing challenges and developments. “I try to absorb as much information as possible and learn from the experience,” he said.
Communication plays a vital role in Drugovich’s preparations. He has been in regular contact with both the engineers and the main drivers of the Aston Martin team, Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso. “Usually, I communicate with the engineers, but I also engage in conversations with the drivers about the car and their experiences on the track. It’s essential for me to understand their feelings and insights, as it provides me with a clearer picture of the car’s performance,” he explained.
While acknowledging that the most critical feedback comes from the drivers actively racing, Drugovich believes that his simulator work also contributes positively to the team’s overall progress. “It’s a relative situation, as up until now, the performance of all teams has been quite similar to how it started. No one has rolled out any major upgrade packages yet. However, I think my contributions have been valuable so far. Although I cannot directly impact car production, I can test various setups in the simulator and provide feedback on what works better or worse,” he noted.
As Drugovich continues to focus entirely on his Formula 1 career, he remains hopeful for additional opportunities throughout the season. Aston Martin has plans for another free practice session, although the specifics regarding the location and timing are yet to be confirmed.
In the competitive landscape of Formula 1, the role of a reserve driver is multifaceted. It requires not only skill and preparation but also the ability to adapt and support the team dynamically. Drugovich’s commitment to understanding the intricacies of the car and its performance reflects his dedication and professional mindset.
Throughout the current season, he has demonstrated a proactive approach by engaging in discussions with both engineers and race drivers. This collaboration fosters a deeper understanding of the vehicle’s capabilities and the atmosphere within the team. By being present during meetings and briefings, Drugovich ensures he is well-prepared for any potential opportunities that might arise.
The importance of simulator work cannot be overstated, especially in a sport where precision and data play crucial roles in performance. Drugovich’s contributions in the simulator allow the team to explore various configurations and setups, ultimately aiding in fine-tuning the car for optimal performance on race day. As he continues to build on his experiences, his insights will be invaluable as Aston Martin navigates through the complexities of the 2026 regulations.
With the evolution of Formula 1 and the ongoing adjustments to technical regulations, drivers like Drugovich are integral to their teams’ success. Their ability to adapt to changing conditions and provide valuable feedback is essential for staying competitive in this fast-paced sport. Felipe Drugovich’s journey exemplifies the dedication and resilience required to thrive in Formula 1, and as the season progresses, he is poised to make significant contributions both on and off the track.
In summary, Felipe Drugovich is actively engaged in the development of Aston Martin’s car for the 2026 Formula 1 season, focusing primarily on simulator work. Although many aspects of the new regulations remain uncertain, his proactive approach and commitment to understanding the car’s performance are instrumental as he prepares for future opportunities within the team. His ongoing communication with engineers and drivers ensures that he stays informed and ready to contribute whenever called upon. As the season unfolds, Drugovich’s role will continue to be pivotal in shaping Aston Martin’s performance in both the present and the future.
