Jak Crawford will become Aston Martin’s third driver in 2026 and will act as the team’s reserve at all races next season after graduating from Formula 2.
The American currently sits 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. After joining Aston Martin’s driver development program in 2024, he has gained experience with previous F1 machines, but Crawford will now be a back-up option for the team next year.
“It’s great to see Jak progress and become our third driver for 2026,” said team principal Andy Cowell. “Over the past two years he has shown his value as a key member of our driving team and has built up valuable experience and testing mileage.
“Jak has impressed in the simulator, having completed regular sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our racing activities and car development. Jak’s performances in Formula 2 have also been excellent and we are excited to continue supporting his growth as he takes on an expanded 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 am incredibly proud to have been confirmed as the third driver for 2026,” said Crawford. “It’s a huge moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a great motivation to keep learning and contributing.
“Over the past two seasons I have learned so much from working in the Formula 1 environment, both in the factory and on the track. I will do everything I can to support the team and continue to develop as a driver.”
As part of his role, Crawford could get another run in the 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.
Although there will be no US race in F1 in 2026, Crawford’s reserve role will see him maintain close links with a team on the grid, and he will be joined by Colton Herta, who will become a Cadillac test driver next year alongside an F2 campaign.
“Rather than leaving my racing home in Silverstone, I’m staying put,” added Crawford. “This was an easy decision because I wanted to work for an F1 team that knows me best and appreciates me the most.
“I am confident 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 real professional career. I am not giving up on my dream of being a full-time Formula 1 driver, and this is another step for me on the road to F1.”
#Crawford #appointed #reserve #driver #Aston #Martin #RACER