Jak Crawford is not just another name in the paddock. The American driver closed the 2025 Formula 2 season as runner-up, while also holding a key role at Aston Martin as reserve driver. In the midst of the F1 seat hunt, Crawford speaks openly about his career journey, from karting at age four to his dream of racing in the top tier.
Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Crawford admits he was initially more interested in NASCAR, which dominated American TV. "I started karting when I was four. My dad bought me a go-kart and started taking me to tracks when I was six," he said. But it didn't take long for him to switch to single-seaters, which led him to Europe and joining the Red Bull Junior Team in 2019.
That decision came after Helmut Marko, Red Bull's advisor, emailed Crawford's father and invited them to Mexico City. "We met, then he arranged a test for me at the Red Bull Ring in an F4 car. As soon as the morning session ended, he offered me a contract," Crawford recalled. Though his F2 career wasn't as smooth as F3, he says he learned a lot from Red Bull's resources, even if he was eventually sidelined to make way for Isack Hadjar.
Crawford's journey continued with Aston Martin at the end of 2024. "They asked me to do a simulator evaluation. That day went well," he said. He started as development driver, then rose to reserve driver thanks to his impressive F2 performances. "I'm learning so much here," he added. Off track, Crawford stays fit with running, cycling, and padel, plus sim-racing for fun.
Regarding his future, Crawford is realistic yet optimistic. "My target is to get a full-time seat within the next two years. I'd love to race for Aston Martin if there's an opportunity, but if not, I'll have to consider other options," he said. With talent and team support, it's not impossible he'll soon break into the F1 grid.
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