Jack Crawford will become Aston Martin’s third driver in 2026, and will serve as the team’s reserve for all races next season after leaving F2.
The American currently sits second in the F2 Drivers’ Championship ahead of the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, and recently made his FP1 debut for Aston Martin in Mexico City. Crawford will join Aston Martin’s driver development program in 2024, gaining experience in previous F1 cars, but will be a reserve option with the team next year.
Team Principal Andy Cowell said: “It’s great to see Jack progressing towards becoming our third driver for 2026. “Over the past two years he has shown his worth as a key member of our driver team, gaining valuable experience and test miles.
“Jack has impressed in the simulator following regular sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our race operations and vehicle development. Jack’s performance in F2 has also been excellent and we are excited to continue to support his development as he takes on a larger role.”
Crawford has been working on the 2026 car in Aston Martin’s simulator and said the 20-year-old is enjoying the experience he is gaining within the team.
“I am extremely honored to have been selected as the third driver for 2026,” Crawford said. “This is a big moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a huge motivation to keep learning and contributing.
“Over the past two seasons I have been in the F1 environment both at the factory and trackside and have learned a lot. I will do everything I can to support the team and continue to develop as a driver.”
As part of his role, Crawford could return to driving in an F1 car this year, although Aston Martin has yet to announce plans for the rookie’s final FP1 appearance at the end of the season in Abu Dhabi.
Although there will be no American F1 races in 2026, he will maintain close ties with the teams on the grid as a reserve for Crawford, and will be joined by Colton Herta, who will be a test driver for Cadillac next year alongside the F2 campaign.
“Instead of leaving the racing home of Silverstone, I’m staying there,” Crawford added. “This was an easy decision as I wanted to be with the F1 team that knows me best and values me the most.
“I am confident that the team will announce my full role more clearly as the year ends and we begin a new journey in 2026.
“There were other professional options, but this is the right place for me in 2026 as I move from junior racing to a truly professional career. I have not given up on my dream of becoming a full-time F1 driver and this is another step on my way to the top of F1.”