Promotion for Jak Crawford! The Formula 2 driver will become the ‘third driver’ for Aston Martin’s team in 2026. The young American will thus serve as the reserve driver for the British team in all races next season. The fate of Aston Martin’s current reserve drivers, Felipe Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne, remains unknown.
Jak Crawford only joined Aston Martin’s Young Driver Development Programme in 2024, but he has made an impression. After just two years, the American is being promoted to reserve driver, under the title ‘third driver’, for all races of the 2026 season. Crawford is likely to take over from current reserve drivers Felipe Drugovich and Stoffel Vandoorne. Crawford recently took part in the first free practice session in Mexico, finishing the session in nineteenth place.
In addition to his current duties as a simulator driver for Aston Martin, Crawford also races in Formula 2. The driver is currently second in the championship of the feeder series. “I am incredibly proud to be confirmed as the third driver for 2026. It’s a significant moment in my career with Aston Martin and a huge motivation to continue learning and contributing,” Crawford enthusiastically shares in the press release. “Over the past two seasons, I have learned a lot in the Formula 1 world, both at the AMR Technology Campus (Aston Martin’s headquarters) and on the track. I will do everything I can to support the team and continue to develop as a driver.”
‘Greater Role’
According to Aston Martin team boss Andy Cowell, appointing Crawford as ‘third driver’ was the logical next step for the young American. “It’s great to see Jak developing into our third driver for 2026,” says Cowell. “Jak has impressed in the simulator, where he regularly completes sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our racing activities and the development of our cars. Jak has also delivered excellent performances in Formula 2 and we look forward to continuing to support his growth as he takes on a greater role.”
