Lance Stroll will be replaced by Jak Crawford for FP1 at the Austrian Grand Prix. Stroll has had a tough start to the 2026 season, failing to claim a single point across the first seven race weekends.
What happened?
Aston Martin announced that reserve driver Jak Crawford will step into the AMR26 for FP1, as the team looks to fulfil its rookie driver quota.
Why it matters for Lance Stroll
Stroll's struggles in 2026 have been well-documented, with the Canadian driver outqualifying team-mate Fernando Alonso for the first time in almost two years at the Barcelona Grand Prix.
What comes next?
Crawford, who has taken part in a few practice sessions over the past couple of seasons, will look to make the most of his opportunity, having been named Aston Martin's official third driver for 2026.
Lance Stroll will return to his machine for FP2 and the rest of the weekend, looking to turn his season around. Crawford, on the other hand, will be focused on delivering useful feedback and maximising the session for the team.
The Austrian Grand Prix takes place next weekend, with Stroll and Alonso looking to secure valuable points for Aston Martin. Crawford's performance in FP1 will be closely watched, as he looks to make a statement in the F1 paddock.
Aston Martin's decision to replace Stroll for FP1 is part of a larger strategy to develop young drivers, with Crawford being given the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the AMR26. The team will be hoping that Crawford's participation will pay off in the long run, as they look to challenge for podiums and points in the 2026 season.
The rookie driver quota is a requirement for all F1 teams, with each car having to be given to a rookie driver at least twice per season. Aston Martin's decision to replace Stroll with Crawford for FP1 is a testament to the team's commitment to developing young talent.
Crawford's experience in F2 and F3 will be invaluable as he takes to the track in the AMR26. The young American has already shown his pace and ability in the junior formulas, and will be looking to make a strong impression in his first outing in the 2026 season.
The Austrian Grand Prix promises to be an exciting weekend of racing, with Stroll and Alonso looking to secure valuable points for Aston Martin. Crawford's participation in FP1 will add an extra layer of intrigue to the weekend's proceedings, as the F1 paddock looks on to see how the young American will perform.