Aston Martin reveals its reserve driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Aston Martin has confirmed Jak Crawford as its third and reserve driver for the 2026 F1 season..

F1 | Aston Martin announces Jak Crawford as third driver for the 2026 season

Aston Martin has officially announced Jak Crawford as its third and reserve driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The young American racer will serve as backup to Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, ready to step in should either of the two full-time drivers be unable to compete in any Grand Prix.

The British team continues to plan ahead for the new era of Formula 1 that begins in 2026. Earlier this afternoon, Aston Martin revealed that Jak Crawford will take on the crucial role of third driver, a key step in his progression through the team’s driver development structure.

The 20-year-old, who joined the Aston Martin Young Driver Development Programme in 2024, has already completed more than 2,000 kilometers of Formula 1 running. Most recently, he made his debut behind the wheel of the AMR25 during the first free practice session of the Mexican Grand Prix, replacing Lance Stroll for the opening hour of track action.

Throughout the current season, Jak Crawford has been heavily involved in simulator work at the team’s Silverstone facility, helping Aston Martin fine-tune its race operations and providing essential feedback for the ongoing preparation of the AMR25 and the development of next year’s AMR26 chassis.

In addition to his Formula 1 duties, Jak Crawford is also competing in his third season in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, where he currently holds second place in the Drivers’ Standings. In about a month’s time, he will return to the cockpit for the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, aiming to secure the championship title.

Jak Crawford proud to take the next step with Aston Martin

Following the announcement, Jak Crawford shared his excitement about the opportunity: “I’m incredibly proud to have been confirmed as third driver for 2026. It’s an important moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a huge motivation to keep learning and contributing to the team. Over the last two seasons, I’ve learned so much from the Formula 1 environment, both at the factory and on the track. I’ll do everything I can to support the team and continue growing as a driver.”

Andy Cowell: “Jak has proven his value within our team”

Andy Cowell, CEO and Team Principal of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, praised Crawford’s development and contribution: “It’s fantastic to see Jak become our third driver for 2026. Over the past two years, he has proven his worth as a key member of our driver squad, gaining valuable experience and extensive test mileage.”

“Jak has impressed everyone with his simulator work, regularly completing sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our race operations and car development,” Cowell added. “His performances in Formula 2 have also been outstanding, and we’re excited to continue supporting his growth as he steps into a more significant role within the team.”