American F1 Hopeful Jak Crawford Joins Aston Martin Driver Development Program

American 18-year-old Jak Crawford has joined Aston Martin’s young driver development program in Formula 1.

Crawford finished 13th in last year’s Formula 2 championship as a rookie, with one victory, a pole position and four further podiums, and will remain in the category this season. Crawford left Red Bull’s junior program at the end of 2023, after four years on its roster, and has now linked up with Aston Martin for 2024.

As part of the affiliation Crawford is scheduled to test Aston Martin’s 2022-spec AMR22 later in the year. He will also carry out simulator work and shadow Aston Martin at Grands Prix through the upcoming season.

“He has shown great potential throughout his junior career and we look forward to supporting his learning and development as he steps into the AMR22 for the first time,” said Aston Martin F1 team principal Mike Krack.

“As part of the growth of the team we want to offer talented young drivers a valuable development program and I have no doubt Jak will flourish in this environment. We are fortunate to have state-of-the art facilities and world-class personnel, who will prepare Jak to race at the very highest level.”

Crawford is currently testing with his DAMS Formula 2 team in Bahrain ahead of the opening round at the venue on March 1.

“I am proud to take this next step in my career,” said Crawford. “Aston Martin is a great place to learn and grow, and the programme ahead sounds exciting. I cannot wait to start working with everyone—especially on the simulator where I can make a contribution to the team’s performance on race weekends.

“I’m thrilled to get the chance to drive the AMR22 car later this year. It is a big motivator for me to work hard and make the most of this great opportunity.