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

2025 F2 runner-up and Aston Martin third driver Jak Crawford will take part in FP1 at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, as announced by the team.

The 20-year old American will take over Fernando Alonso’s AMR26 for the opening practice session at the team’s engine supplier Honda’s home race. Adding to the 3,000km+ mileage Crawford accumulated across runs in Mexico and Abu Dhabi last season.

“I’m really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka,” said Crawford in the team statement.  

“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.”

Chief Trackside Officer for Aston Martin in 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.”

Aston Martin will carry added weight on their shoulders at the Japanese Grand Prix, given it is Honda’s home race and the new-for-2026 partnership has yet to yield a classified race finish.

Deficiencies from the Honda power-unit has severely hamstrung the Silverstone based outfit, with Aston Martin now embroiled too in speculation over its leadership structure. Departing Audi team boss Jonathan Wheatley being widely tipped to take over from Adrian Newey – who’ll step back into his original Managing Technical Partner role.

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Written by

Jawad Yaqub

An eCommerce Specialist by day and reporting on F1 by night. Jawad is passionate about motorsport, having provided accredited F1 coverage for more than a decade and is a member of the AIPS (International Sports Press Association). Live blogging (almost) every grand prix too since 2014, as well as articles on the Supercars Championship. Also keen on sustainability, photography, collecting vinyl, (trying to) expertly barbeque and learning to Dad.

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