Jak Crawford to drive Aston Martin in Japanese GP FP1
24th March 2026Aston Martin has become the first Formula 1 team to pull a driver to start their FP1 rookie requirement, confirming Jak Crawford will drive at the Japanese Grand Prix.
Feature image credit: Aston Martin F1
Aston Martin has confirmed that they will use their third driver, Crawford, for the first free practice session of the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, replacing Fernando Alonso at the team for the opening hour.
It marks the Aston Martin man’s third outing for the team after he completed two FP1 sessions last year, as the team worked through their mandated rookie sessions.
The Silverstone-based squad has inadvertently become the first F1 team to take a driver out of his seat to replace with a rookie, with the likes of Racing Bulls being able to fulfil the requirement with Arvid Lindblad, who stands as the only rookie on the 2026 grid.
On the announcement of his drive, Crawford said:
“I’m really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka. 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.”
Whilst Suzuka will be the first outing for Crawford, it will also be the first time the third driver has tasted the iconic and challenging Japanese circuit, home to the team’s power unit provider, Honda.
The announcement follows a tough start to the 2026 season for the Silverstone team after the opening two rounds of the campaign. Aston is yet to finish a Grand Prix after both their drivers, Lance Stroll and Alonso, either retired or failed to classify in both the Australian and Chinese Grand Prix.
“It’s great that we’re able to give Jak another opportunity in FP1 as part of our ongoing commitment to developing young talent,” said Aston Martin’s Chief Trackside Officer, Mick Krack.
“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.”
The opening practice session of the weekend will get underway this Friday, March 27, at 11:30am local time.
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