Aston Martin F1 reserve Felipe Drugovich says that an opportunity to race in next week’s Canadian Grand Prix would take precedence over his commitment to compete at Le Mans on the same weekend, should the Silverstone-based outfit call upon his services to sub for Lance Stroll.
Stroll’s withdrawal from the Spanish Grand Prix after qualifying due to a flare-up of pain in his previously fractured right hand and wrist has cast doubt over his fitness for his home race in Montreal on June 16.
In Barcelona, Aston was unable to draft in Drugovich as Stroll’s pull-out was announced after qualifying, which led to the team fielding only Fernando Alonso in the race – a situation they’ll be keen to avoid repeating if Stroll is not ready in time.
With uncertainty looming, Drugovich, speaking to Brazilian broadcaster Band, made his position clear on his side.
"At the moment, I don't even know exactly how things will happen from now on,” he said.
“First of all, we have to wish Lance the best. For Le Mans, in that regard, my priority has always been Formula 1, so that's what must be maintained until then."
Caught Between Two Worlds
Drugovich is currently slated to race in the iconic Le Mans endurance event next week with Cadillac’s Whelen Engineering team in the #311 Hypercar entry, sharing the cockpit with Jack Aitken and Frederik Vesti.
So Stroll’s prolonged absence could force a high-stakes decision if Aston Martin need a stand-in.
While the team’s other reserve, Stoffel Vandoorne, is also committed to Le Mans (with Peugeot), their options for Canada are limited.
Jak Crawford, another young driver in their stable, does not yet hold an FIA Super Licence. That leaves Drugovich – and potentially a call to Mercedes for Valtteri Bottas, who’s free that weekend – as the only feasible alternatives.
Despite being highly rated within the paddock, Drugovich has found opportunities to break into F1 elusive.
Since claiming the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2022, the Brazilian has remained on the sidelines, restricted to simulator work, testing duties, and media speculation.
The Canadian Grand Prix could finally offer him the long-awaited platform to showcase his ability at the highest level — if fate allows.
Read also: Stroll’s Spanish GP pullout tied to temper flare-up?Stroll’s recovery timeline remains unclear, and Aston Martin have not yet publicly committed to a contingency plan.
However, Drugovich’s message leaves little doubt about where his priorities lie. Should the call come, he’ll be ready.
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