Felipe Drugovich's chances of stepping into a Formula 1 race seat in 2025 appear to have increased significantly.
Since securing the Formula 2 title in 2022, the 24-year-old Brazilian has struggled to secure a full-time F1 drive, serving instead as Aston Martin's reserve driver.
His impressive performances in practice sessions, however, have drawn attention.
"If anybody is deserving a seat right now, it's Drugovich," Red Bull's Liam Lawson said on the Pitstop podcast.
"His free practice in Abu Dhabi (in 2023) was quicker than (Lance) Stroll. Then last year I think he was quicker than Fernando (Alonso)."
Now, Swiss newspaper Blick reports that Drugovich could expand his role in 2025 by also serving as a backup driver for Ferrari-powered Sauber, alongside his Aston Martin commitments.
"The decision (at Sauber) would be made between two drivers," wrote veteran journalist Roger Benoit. "Felipe Drugovich, who has been hoping for a chance at Aston Martin for three years, or Antonio Giovinazzi, who Ferrari is letting travel around the world as a replacement."
