Aston Martin have confirmed who will step in for Fernando Alonso should the two-time Formula 1 world champion be unable to participate in upcoming race weekend sessions, while also providing a timeline for further updates regarding the Spaniard’s condition.
The Silverstone-based outfit has endured a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, with both performance and reliability issues hampering progress. Alonso has been at the center of the team’s efforts to turn things around, but concerns surrounding the veteran driver’s physical condition have once again drawn attention inside the paddock.
Aston Martin confirmed that reserve driver Jak Crawford remains on standby to replace Alonso whenever required during official race weekend activities. The American driver has already been trusted with Formula 1 machinery this season and has impressed team management with his performances in testing and practice sessions.
The announcement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Alonso’s health after a demanding season in which the Spaniard has battled both physical discomfort and the challenges of driving Aston Martin’s troublesome AMR26. Earlier in the campaign, Alonso revealed that severe vibrations from the car had left him struggling physically during races, while reliability concerns have continued to frustrate the 44-year-old veteran.
Team officials have stressed that Alonso remains fully committed to helping Aston Martin recover from their disappointing start to the year. However, they have also indicated that regular medical assessments will continue throughout the season to ensure the driver’s wellbeing is protected.
According to the team’s latest update, a further evaluation of Alonso’s condition is expected ahead of the next race weekend, with a final decision regarding any potential session absences to be made after consultations with medical staff and team engineers.
The health update arrives during a particularly challenging period for Aston Martin. The team has struggled for competitiveness throughout the 2026 campaign, with Alonso openly describing the situation as exhausting as he continues to answer questions about the car’s lack of pace and reliability. Recent races have highlighted persistent issues involving the power unit, energy deployment systems, gearbox performance and battery reliability.
Despite those setbacks, Alonso has remained determined to help guide the project forward. The Spaniard is contracted with Aston Martin through the end of the 2026 season, although he has admitted that his long-term Formula 1 future beyond this year remains undecided. A final decision on whether he continues racing after 2026 is expected later in the season.
For now, Aston Martin insist their primary focus remains on improving the AMR26 and ensuring Alonso is fit enough to continue competing. With major upgrades expected later in the year and Adrian Newey’s influence beginning to shape the team’s future direction, the outfit hopes better results are still possible before the season concludes.
Should Alonso require additional rest or treatment, Crawford stands ready to step into the cockpit, ensuring Aston Martin have an experienced reserve option available at short notice as the team navigates one of the most challenging campaigns in its recent Formula 1 history.
