Jack Crawford, Aston Martin’s reserve driver this season, will return to action in Formula 1 when he takes over Lance Stroll’s car for Free Practice 1 at the Mexico City Grand Prix. According to the report, Crawford made his F1 debut in the same session at the same circuit a year earlier, making the return particularly significant for the American driver.
Crawford finished as Formula 2 runner-up in 2025 and has already completed three Free Practice sessions this season for Aston Martin. The Mexico City appearance will be his fourth such outing.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back behind the wheel of the AMR26 in Mexico City. It’s a special circuit for me, as it’s where I made my debut in the first free practice session last year; so it’s fantastic to return with more experience,” Crawford said, according to the report. He noted that he has gained experience both on track and in the simulator over the current season.
The announcement coincides with the Austin Grand Prix weekend, Crawford’s home Grand Prix. “It’s also symbolic to announce this during my home Grand Prix weekend in Austin,” he said.
Crawford’s path to F1 has involved competition in the junior categories. He finished closely behind Leonardo Fornaroli before Fornaroli’s title win last year, indicating his competitive standing in the feeder series.
According to the report, the upcoming season presents a challenging landscape for drivers from previous F2 campaigns seeking race opportunities in F1, with limited spots available despite high density of talent within the next generation. The Free Practice exposure is characterized as a potential opportunity for Crawford, who is described as still seeking clarity about his future in racing.
Key facts
- Jack Crawford finished as Formula 2 runner-up in 2025
- Crawford made his F1 debut in FP1 at Mexico City a year ago
- He will complete his fourth Free Practice session this season when he replaces Lance Stroll in Mexico City
- Crawford has been Aston Martin’s reserve driver this season
- He competed closely with Leonardo Fornaroli in the previous F2 campaign