Jak Crawford set to take part in Japanese Grand Prix FP1 with Aston Martin

The Aston Martin Formula 1 Team have confirmed that Jak Crawford will be driving for them in the opening practice session of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.

Crawford has been serving as the team’s third driver so far in 2026 after a strong 2025 season in FIA Formula 2, where he finished third in the Drivers’ Championship.

This will be Crawford’s first Formula 1 weekend outing of the season, but he does have previous experience in F1 machinery, having taken part in both the Mexico and Abu Dhabi Free Practice one sessions at the back end of last year.

The American, who has completed 3000kms in Aston Martin Formula 1 cars already, will now jump into the cockpit in Fernando Alonso’s AMR26, and speaking at the announcement, he expressed how happy he was to get the chance.

"I'm really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka,” said Crawford. “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 Chief Trackside Officer Mike Krack also 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."