Brazilian Drugovich to continue as Aston Martin F1 reserve

SAO PAULO : Brazilian Felipe Drugovich will continue as Aston Martin's test and reserve driver next season, the Formula One team said on Thursday.

Last year's Formula Two champion will also take part in first Friday practice at this month's season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, replacing double world champion Fernando Alonso for the session.

The 23-year-old replaced Lance Stroll in first practice at the Italian Grand Prix in September and also took part in pre-season testing when the Canadian was injured in a cycling accident.

Aston Martin said the Brazilian had done 20 days of simulator work and completed more than 6,000km of track driving so far this year.

"Every time he gets behind the wheel, we clearly see the strength of his contribution: his pace, feedback and commitment are all extremely valuable to our engineers," said team boss Mike Krack.