Jak Crawford will likely be Aston Martin’s third driver in 2026 and act because the group’s reserve in any respect races subsequent season after graduating from Components 2.
The American is presently second within the F2 drivers’ championship forward of the ultimate two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, and not too long ago made his FP1 debut for Aston Martin in Mexico Metropolis. Having joined Aston Martin’s driver growth program in 2024, he has gained expertise in earlier F1 equipment however Crawford will now be a reserve choice for the group subsequent 12 months.
“It’s nice to see Jak progress to turn into our third driver for 2026,” group principal Andy Cowell stated. “Over the previous two years, he has proven his worth as a key member of our driver squad and constructed up a worthwhile financial institution of expertise and check mileage.
“Jak has impressed within the simulator, having accomplished common periods on the AMR Know-how Campus to help our race operations and automobile growth. Jak’s performances in Components 2 have additionally been excellent, and we’re excited to proceed supporting his development as he takes on a much bigger function.”
Crawford has been engaged on the 2026 automobile in Aston Martin’s simulator, and the 20-year-old says he’s having fun with the expertise he’s gaining throughout the group.
“I’m extremely proud to be confirmed because the third driver for 2026,” Crawford stated. “It’s an enormous second in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a giant motivation to continue to learn and contributing.
“Over the previous two seasons, I’ve discovered a lot from being within the Components 1 atmosphere, each on the manufacturing facility and trackside. I’ll be doing all the pieces I can to help the group and proceed creating as a driver.”
As a part of his function, Crawford might get one other run in F1 equipment this 12 months, with Aston Martin but to announce its plans for its last FP1 rookie outing in Abu Dhabi on the finish of the season.
Whereas there is not going to be an American racing in F1 in 2026, Crawford’s reserve function sees him retain shut ties to a group on the grid, and he will likely be joined by Colton Herta who turns into Cadillac check driver alongside an F2 marketing campaign subsequent 12 months.
“As a substitute of leaving my racing dwelling in Silverstone, I’m staying put,” Crawford added. “This was a straightforward choice as I wished to be with an F1 group that is aware of me greatest and appreciates me essentially the most.
“I’m certain the group will announce extra readability on my full function because the 12 months ends and a brand new journey begins in 2026.
“I had different skilled choices, however that is the best place for me in 2026 as I transition from junior racing to a real skilled profession. I’m not giving up my dream to be a full-time Components 1 driver, and that is one other step for me on the F1 climb.”
