F1 News: Aston Martin Carries Out Formula One Tests With American Driver

American Formula 2 standout Jak Crawford will make his Formula One test debut in an Aston Martin, piloting the AMR22 on June 5th at the Red Bull Ring, the home of the Austrian Grand Prix. This milestone event not only advances Crawford’s career but also underscores Aston Martin’s dedication to developing new driving talent.

Crawford’s entry into Formula One testing could represent a major escalation in his career trajectory from Formula 2. Signed recently to Aston Martin’s driver development program, this opportunity allows him to gain invaluable experience in a Formula One car, a crucial step for any driver aiming for the top echelons of racing. For Aston Martin, this event illustrates their strategy of fostering young talent, which is essential for the sport’s sustainability and the team’s future competitiveness.

Crawford will take the wheel of the AMR22, Aston Martin’s challenger from the 2022 season. This not only provides Crawford with exposure to the latest F1 technology but also invaluable learnings in vehicle handling and performance at one of F1’s celebrated circuits, the Red Bull Ring.

Crawford shared his excitement about the upcoming test, noting, as quoted by Racing News 365:

“Testing with Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team is more than just a dream come true; it’s an important and exciting step on my motorsport journey.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this chance to drive an F1 car, learn more from the team and push myself even further. I want to say a massive thank you to Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team for believing in me and providing this opportunity.

“I can’t wait to hit the track in Austria on 5 June.”

Post-test, Crawford will return to his commitments in the Formula 2 championship, armed with fresh insights and experiences from his time in the F1 cockpit. The Silverstone-based squad will evaluate his performance during the test to gauge potential future roles within their F1 or broader racing efforts. The outcome of this test could also lead to more opportunities for Crawford in F1, depending on the mutual benefits recognized from this initial engagement.

Team principal Mike Krack commented when Crawford joined the Aston Martin driver development program in February, as quoted by Formula One:

“As part of the growth of the team we want to offer talented young drivers a valuable development programme 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.

“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.”