Aston Martin confirm Jak Crawford for Japanese Grand Prix FP1 outing at Suzuka

The 20-year-old will make his first FP1 appearance of the season for the Silverstone outfit, fulfilling one of the mandatory rookie sessions required under Formula 1 regulations. It also marks a continuation of Crawford’s gradual integration into the team across race weekends.

Crawford has been heavily involved behind the scenes, with simulator work forming a central part of his role. That preparation becomes particularly relevant at Suzuka, a circuit he has not previously driven, making the session a key opportunity to translate virtual experience into real track running.

This outing will be Crawford’s third FP1 session in less than six months, underlining Aston Martin’s ongoing investment in his development. He previously participated in two sessions at the end of last season and has now accumulated more than 3,000 km in Formula 1 machinery with the team.

The Suzuka session will provide valuable track time at one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar, offering both technical feedback for the team and further mileage for Crawford as he builds experience in a competitive weekend environment.

For Aston Martin, the session balances regulatory obligations with long term driver development, while allowing Alonso to step aside for one practice session without compromising the team’s broader race weekend programme.

Crawford Commented: "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."

Mike Krack, Aston Martin's Chief Trackside Officer 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 have been struggling so far in the 2026 F1 season with a subpar Honda power unit and sever vibrations marring their AMR26 which is preventing them from completing full race distances without breakdowns or jeopardizing their drivers' health.

There has been speculation about a potential change with Jonathan Wheatley tipped to join as Team Principal which has become more credible after his exit from Audi las week.