Alonso to Miss Japanese Grand Prix Practice Session
Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso will not participate in the first free practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix. The team's reserve driver, Jack Crawford, will take his place. The Japanese Grand Prix is scheduled for March 27-29 at the Suzuka Circuit. This marks Crawford's third free practice appearance in the last six months, having previously taken part in two such sessions at the end of the 2025 season. This is a common opportunity for teams to give their reserve drivers valuable track time.
Aston Martin's Current Team Dynamics
In 2026, Crawford has been working on the Aston Martin team's simulator. The team has yet to score any points in the current championship season, which is also represented by Canadian driver Lance Stroll. Jack Crawford expressed his excitement about the chance to drive at the historic Suzuka track, stating he hopes to maximize the opportunity and apply what he has learned from his simulator work. The Suzuka circuit is renowned for its demanding, high-speed layout, making any practice data crucial.
In other Formula 1 news, two Grands Prix originally set for April have been postponed. The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were rescheduled due to security concerns in the Middle East. These calendar changes will affect the planning for Aston Martin and all other teams on the grid.
Alonso's absence in Japan could significantly impact Aston Martin's preparation as they strive to secure their first points of the season. Utilizing Jack Crawford is a strategic move for the team, leveraging his recent practice experience and simulator work to help adapt to Suzuka's challenging conditions. Furthermore, the postponement of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races will require the team to reassess its strategies and preparation for the upcoming stages of the championship.
As Aston Martin navigates the challenges of the current season, the team is also facing potential complications off the track. Recent reports indicate that the team may be at risk of suspension due to dangerous engine vibrations. This situation could further hinder their efforts to secure points in the championship. For a deeper understanding of the implications surrounding Aston Martin's performance and the technical issues they are confronting, read more about the potential suspension here.