2022 F2 champion, Felipe Drugovich will replace Lance Stroll in official opening practice session at Monza on Friday for Aston Martin.

The team's test & reserve driver will participate in the 60-minute session at Autodromo Nazionale Monza - the circuit at which he secured his Formula 2 title just 12 months ago. The session will mark the Brazilian's return to the AMR23, after he stood in for an injured Lance Stroll during pre-season testing in Bahrain.

The upcoming session is the next stage in Drugovich's development following a tailored testing programme that has seen the Brazilian run the AMR21 at some of Europe's most renowned circuits, including Silverstone, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and the Red Bull Ring.

The bespoke programme is designed to equip him with the necessary skills and experience to compete at the highest level of motorsport, aiding his continuous development as a driver.

"I can't wait to get back behind the wheel of the AMR23," said Drugovich. "The car felt great when I drove it in pre-season testing and it will be fascinating to feel how it has improved since then. I've spent a lot of time in the simulator helping to develop the car, so understanding how that correlates to the real thing will be super valuable for me too.

"It's also a fantastic opportunity for me to demonstrate what I've learnt through my testing programme. Since Bahrain I've done many more miles in an F1 car so I have an even better understanding of how I can deliver valuable feedback for the team.

"I'd like to thank Aston Martin for trusting me with this opportunity, as well as our Brazilian partners XP, Porto Seguro and Banco Master for their continued support."

"We are delighted to be able to provide Felipe with another opportunity to drive the AMR23," added Mike Krack. "He demonstrated his capabilities in pre-season testing, with a vital contribution to the team's initial development of the car. Monza will offer another chance for Felipe to work closely with the engineers and mechanics and build his confidence in a critical session for the team. We look forward to maximising this session together."