Aston Martin Junior Jak Crawford Replaces Lance Stroll for Abu Dhabi FP1

Aston Martin junior driver Jak Crawford will step into Lance Stroll's car for the opening practice session of next month's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This move comes as Crawford, recently confirmed as Aston Martin's third driver for the 2026 F1 season, continues his development within the team.

Why it matters:

• This opportunity provides Crawford with crucial track time, furthering his integration into the Aston Martin F1 team ahead of his elevated role as third driver for the 2026 season.
• It highlights Aston Martin's commitment to nurturing young talent and preparing their next generation of drivers for potential F1 roles, ensuring continuity and depth within their driver line-up.

The Details:

• FP1 Appearance: Crawford will replace Lance Stroll in the AMR25 for FP1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking his second official F1 race weekend appearance after deputizing for Stroll in Mexico last month.
• New Role: The 20-year-old American was recently confirmed as Aston Martin's third driver for the 2026 F1 season, a role that will see him attend every race as a reserve option.
• F2 Season: Crawford is currently second in the F2 drivers' standings, trailing championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli by 19 points with two rounds remaining, resuming his title challenge at the Qatar Grand Prix.
• Post-Season Test: In addition to the FP1 session, Crawford will also participate in the traditional post-season test at Yas Marina, gaining further valuable experience in F1 machinery.
• Simulator Work: Crawford has logged over 2,100 kilometers in F1 cars and has been a 'constant presence' in the simulator, assisting with the development of both the current AMR25 and the Adrian Newey-designed, Honda-powered AMR26 for next season.
• Team's Perspective: Team Principal Andy Cowell emphasized the importance of building mileage and maintaining momentum for young drivers, viewing the Abu Dhabi session as a vital step in Crawford's preparation for his new role.
• Stroll's Endorsement: Lance Stroll praised Crawford as a 'team player' and a 'great kid,' expressing confidence in his potential to reach F1, acknowledging his efforts in F2 and the simulator.

What's next:

Crawford's continued involvement in FP1 sessions and testing underscores Aston Martin's strategic approach to driver development. This consistent exposure will be vital as he transitions into his 2026 third driver role and potentially eyes a full-time F1 seat in the future. His strong performance in F2 also keeps him firmly in contention for future opportunities, showcasing the importance of combining on-track success with active team integration.