Aston Martin’s Formula 1 reserve driver Felipe Drugovich is to make his Formula E debut with Mahinda Racing at this month’s Berlin E-Prix double-header.
The Brazilian was widely reported to have been slated to make the appearance with the British-based Indian marque after footage emerged of a private test in Spain back in April.
He will take the place of regular race driver Nyck de Vries, who will fulfil his World Endurance Championship duties with Toyota Gazoo Racing in the 6 Hours of São Paulo.
Drugovich has prior knowledge of the Berlin Tempelhof circuit, having completed the rookie test there last year for Maserati MSG Racing.
The 25-year-old recently reiterated his desire to be in F1, having been given a glimmer of hope when Lance Stroll withdrew from the Spanish Grand Prix with a wrist injury.
Drugovich was reported to have stated that he was willing to cede his drive at the Le Mans 24 Hours to race in Canada, but the hope was cut short when Stroll was deemed fit to drive.
However, the opportunity with Mahindra, a team that has shown significant improvement in Season 11, gives Drugovich a perfect audition to be eyed by potential suitors in the all-electric championship.
Drugovich ‘on our radar’ for some time
In a statement released by the team, Drugovich said: “I’m very happy to confirm I will be making my Formula E debut with Mahindra Racing in Berlin.
“Formula E is a championship I’ve been around for a while now; having tested on several occasions, I’m excited to now get the opportunity to race.
“Mahindra Racing is a fantastic team, one of the championship’s standout names, and it’s clear from their recent results that the new car is a significant step forward. I’m looking forward to working closely with them to prepare for Berlin, and I’m sure we can have a good weekend together.”
Mahindra’s Team Principal Frederic Bertrand was equally as excited and added that adding Drugovich to the squad was a long-term aim.
“It’s very exciting to be able to welcome Felipe to the team for the Berlin E-Prix,” he said.
“It’s been on our radar for a while now that we would need to find a solution for Berlin to substitute for Nyck. Felipe quickly emerged as the standout candidate, his achievements speak for themselves, and he’s been very impressive when he’s tested a Formula E car in the past.
“The benefit of having this confirmed so far in advance is that we have had plenty of time to get him fully integrated with the team, to prepare him properly for the race weekend and give him the best opportunity to go out and showcase what he can do.”
