Aston Martin has confirmed that third driver Jak Crawford will take part in the first free practice for the Belgian GP. The American will take over the wheel from Fernando Alonso in the AMR26 at Spa-Francorchamps. This will be Crawford’s third free practice of the year, after previously participating in Japan and Austria. Last weekend, he also took part in the hill climb at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed.
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The 21-year-old Crawford has already participated twice in free practice this season. In Japan, he took over Fernando Alonso’s car, while in Austria he stepped in for Lance Stroll. In 2025, he also took part in two free practices for the British team. Since this year, all teams are required to use a rookie four times during a free practice session. This weekend, Crawford also did some demonstration laps in the AMR25, Aston Martin’s car from last season.
Aiming for an F1 seat
Last year, the American was active in Formula 2. He finished second in the championship and is considered one of the biggest talents within Aston Martin’s development program. He may be prepared for a permanent seat in the top class through these free practices. Alonso’s contract runs out after 2026 and so far the Spanish veteran has little reason to extend the collaboration.
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The two-time world champion has repeatedly hinted that he will base a contract extension on the competitiveness of the team. Around the summer break, Alonso hopes to get clarity. Already during the Hungarian GP, Aston Martin will introduce a comprehensive upgrade package. According to insiders, it concerns a B-spec car, which means that the design of the car will largely be overhauled.
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