Aston Martin reserve driver Jak Crawford will step into Fernando Alonso’s AMR26 during First Free practice for the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix.
The Silverstone-based outfit is fulfilling its first of four FIA-mandated rookie participation requirements for 2026 F1 which means the 20-year-old American prodigy will run at the iconic Suzuka Circuit on Friday.
The strategic Aston Martin driver swap comes amid a challenging start to their 2026 campaign, as they aim to harness emerging talent to bolster their recovery efforts on one of F1’s most demanding tracks.
Crawford’s outing provides him with invaluable real-world experience but also allows the team to gather crucial data, underscoring Aston Martin’s commitment to nurturing the next generation while navigating their on-track struggles.
Jak Crawford’s journey to this opportunity has been one of rapid ascent and calculated progression within the cutthroat landscape of motorsport. Born in Houston, Texas, the young driver first turned heads in the junior formulas, progressing through the ranks with a blend of raw speed and composure under pressure.
His breakthrough came in FIA Formula 2 where he spent three seasons amassing an impressive resume including six race victories that showcased his versatility across varying conditions.
Crawford’s 2025 F2 campaign with DAMS Lucas Oil was a standout, securing wins at prestigious venues like Monaco, Silverstone and Baku to finish third in the Drivers’ Championship.
The American racer transitioned to Aston Martin reserve driver role for 2026 F1 replacing Felipe Drugovich, and has so far accumulated over 3,000 kilometers in their cars through private testing, TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) and official practice outings.
His Grand Prix weekend debut came at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix where he piloted Lance Stroll’s AMR25 in FP1, followed by another session in Abu Dhabi—experiences that built his confidence and provided the team with fresh perspectives.
Crawford has also logged thousands of kilometers in the Silverstone simulator, delivering technical feedback that has informed the AMR26’s development.
Now with the F1 Japanese GP FP1 slot—his first of the season and third in under six months—he stands on the cusp of further integration, eager to translate simulator mastery into track reality on a circuit he’s yet to conquer in person.
“I’m really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka,” Crawford said. “It’s such a historic yet demanding circuit and I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned in the simulator to real track conditions.
“A big thank you to the team for giving me this opportunity. As with my previous FP1 sessions, I’m looking forward to making the most of it and learning as much as I can.”
Aston Martin’s chief trackside officer Mike Krack added: “It’s great that we’re able to give Jak another opportunity in FP1 as part of our ongoing commitment to developing young talent.
“He has been working hard, especially in the simulator back at Silverstone, and this session will allow him to continue building valuable track experience. It’s an important opportunity for him to keep progressing, while also contributing to the team by gathering useful data and feedback.”
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