Credit: Sam Bagnall courtesy of FIA Formula E
New Formula E World Champion Jake Dennis has admitted that Avalanche Andretti Formula E are “interested” in Aston Martin F1 reserve Felipe Drugovich, for their vacant 2024 seat.
Andretti are currently on the hunt for a new driver following André Lotterer’s exit from the all-electric series, with the German set to focus on Porsche’s LMDh programme.
The seat at the Indianapolis-based team is arguably the hottest spot still available for next season, as the other vacant seats for season 10 are for sides who struggled this year, on the whole.
As revealed by Dennis, the reigning Formula 2 World Champion is a contender to be his new team-mate, with Drugovich’s Aston Martin reserve duties presumably not a problem. Drugovich made the switch to the Silverstone-based team this year following his title-winning F2 campaign in 2022. He’s yet to race anywhere this season alongside his Aston Martin role.
He has gained some Formula E experience this campaign, having completed the Berlin rookie test and the Rome rookie practice session for Maserati MSG Racing. The 23-year-old topped both sessions.
A seat at Maserati isn’t believed to be available, following the general belief that the side will retain Maximilian Günther. As things stand, though, this hasn’t been confirmed.
Drugovich is certainly an exciting prospect who performed well in both rookie sessions, and would be an excellent addition to the paddock. It would present Aston Martin with an interesting dilemma though, given that their other reserve driver, Stoffel Vandoorne, also competes in Formula E.
Whilst very few Formula E and F1 rounds clash, Aston Martin would require a new reserve driver for those events should Drugovich be offered the Andretti seat. Perhaps Mick Schumacher would be used by Aston Martin if needed, should the German remain at Mercedes as their reserve next season.
Andretti have clearly got a very strong package which is capable of fighting for consistent podiums and victories, with its Porsche powertrain being one of the strongest on the grid.
Dennis is certain that Drugovich would quickly deliver strong results in Formula E should he make the switch to Andretti; however, the Briton was quick to note that the Brazilian isn’t the only driver being considered.
“Clearly Drugovich is a very talented driver,” Dennis said, as per Total-Motorsport.com.
“He won F2 with complete dominance – there wasn’t a driver who could really get close to him.
“So in terms of talent, there’s no question about it, he is very capable of coming into Formula E and delivering top results.
“We are interested in him for sure, along with other drivers on the grid. It’s not just Drugovich we are looking into, there are multiple other drivers.”
Keyword: Dennis admits Andretti considering Drugovich swoop