Jak Crawford will be Aston Martin’s third driver in 2026 and act as the team’s reserve at all races next season after graduating from Formula 2.
The American is currently second in the F2 drivers’ championship ahead of the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, and recently made his FP1 debut for Aston Martin in Mexico City. Having joined Aston Martin’s driver development program in 2024, he has gained experience in previous F1 machinery but Crawford will now be a reserve option for the team next year.
“It is great to see Jak progress to become our third driver for 2026,” team principal Andy Cowell said. “Over the past two years, he has shown his value as a key member of our driver squad and built up a valuable bank of experience and test mileage.
“Jak has impressed in the simulator, having completed regular sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our race operations and car development. Jak’s performances in Formula 2 have also been outstanding, and we are excited to continue supporting his growth as he takes on a bigger role.”
Crawford has been working on the 2026 car in Aston Martin’s simulator, and the 20-year-old says he is enjoying the experience he is gaining within the team.
“I’m incredibly proud to be confirmed as the third driver for 2026,” Crawford said. “It’s a huge moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a big motivation to keep learning and contributing.
“Over the past two seasons, I’ve learned so much from being in the Formula 1 environment, both at the factory and trackside. I’ll be doing everything I can to support the team and continue developing as a driver.”
As part of his role, Crawford could get another run in F1 machinery this year, with Aston Martin yet to announce its plans for its final FP1 rookie outing in Abu Dhabi at the end of the season.
While there will not be an American racing in F1 in 2026, Crawford’s reserve role sees him retain close ties to a team on the grid, and he will be joined by Colton Herta who becomes Cadillac test driver alongside an F2 campaign next year.
“Instead of leaving my racing home in Silverstone, I am staying put,” Crawford added. “This was an easy decision as I wanted to be with an F1 team that knows me best and appreciates me the most.
“I am sure the team will announce more clarity on my full role as the year ends and a new journey begins in 2026.
“I had other professional options, but this is the right place for me in 2026 as I transition from junior racing to a true professional career. I am not giving up my dream to be a full-time Formula 1 driver, and this is another step for me on the F1 climb.”
