Aston Martin confirm 2026 F1 test driver as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll reserve named

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Aston Martin have confirmed that young American driver Jak Crawford will take over from Felipe Drugovich as the team’s reserve and test driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Jak Crawford made his Formula 1 weekend debut at the recent Mexico City Grand Prix, stepping into Lance Stroll’s car for the first free practice session.

Brazilian driver Felipe Drugovich was previously Aston Martin’s reserve driver, but he will be moving on to race in Formula E next year after failing to make his Formula 1 debut despite becoming F2 champion in 2022.

Drugovich previously came close to replacing Stroll for the Canadian Grand Prix this year after he withdrew from the previous race in Spain due to an injury.

That role will now fall to Crawford from the start of next season, who could also follow in Drugovich’s footsteps and become a Formula 2 champion this year, as he currently sits second in the championship behind Leonardo Fornaroli.

Jak Crawford and Andy Cowell react to 2026 Aston Martin reserve driver news

Speaking to Aston Martin as part of their official press release, Crawford said: “I’m incredibly proud to be confirmed as Third Driver for 2026. It’s a huge moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a big motivation to keep learning and contributing.

“Over the past two seasons, I’ve learned so much from being in the Formula One environment, both at the AMR Technology Campus and trackside. I’ll be doing everything I can to support the team and continue developing as a driver.”

Team principal Andy Cowell added to Crawford’s comments and explained: “It is great to see Jak progress to become our Third Driver for 2026. Over the past two years, he has shown his value as a key member of our driver squad and built up a valuable bank of experience and test mileage.

“Jak has impressed in the simulator, having completed regular sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our race operations and car development. Jak’s performances in Formula 2 have also been outstanding, and we are excited to continue supporting his growth as he takes on a bigger role.”