Jak Crawford will replace Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin for FP1 in Japan

Spring is arriving and with it the traditional rookie season in Formula 1While each team must run a rookie in free practice at least twice a year per car, Japan is, as in 2025, the first race weekend to welcome rookies during its first free practice session.

Pending any further announcements, this is Aston Martin who was the first to draw their weapon, officially announcing Jak Crawford's participation in Free Practice 1 at Suzuka. The American, who became a reserve driver for the Silverstone team in 2026, has just completed his third season of Formula 2 in second place in the overall standings, behind champion Leonardo Fornaroli.

Following on from his successful exercise, the former protégé of Red Bull Junior Team ran twice in free practice at the end of last year, in Mexico and Abu Dhabi, serving as a substitute each time. Lance stroll. This time it is Fernando Alonso who will hand over the wheel to the 20-year-old driver, who has already covered more than 3,000 km at the wheel of Aston Martin F1 cars.

“I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel and driving for the team at Suzuka,” savors Jak Crawford. It's a legendary and demanding circuit, and I can't wait to put what I've learned on the simulator into practice in real track conditions. A huge thank you to the team for giving me this opportunity. As with my previous Free Practice 1 sessions, I intend to make the most of it and learn as much as possible.

“We are delighted to offer Jak a new opportunity in EL1, in line with our ongoing commitment to developing young talent, greets Mike Krack, the team's track operations director. He has worked hard, particularly in the simulator at Silverstone, and this session will allow him to gain valuable on-track experience. It's an important opportunity for him to continue his progress, while also contributing to the team by collecting useful data and feedback.

The first free session of the weekend will be available to watch from 4:30 a.m. Paris time on Friday, March 27.

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