Driver replacing Fernando Alonso at Japanese Grand Prix breaks silence | F1 | Sport

Only Lance Stroll has finished a race so far this season, having come last at the opening outing in Australia earlier this month. Alonso has registered a DNF in both races so far in 2026, with immense pressure starting to build up on the constructor.

Alonso will be offered some respite this weekend when Crawford takes his place in FP1, with the 20-year-old understandably keen to show off his talents.

Speaking on the team website, he said: “I’m really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka. It’s such a historic yet demanding circuit, and I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned in the simulator to real track conditions.

“A big thank you to the team for giving me this opportunity. As with my previous FP1 sessions, I’m looking forward to making the most of it and learning as much as I can.”

Crawford is said to have played a big role in pre-season testing, having put in extensive work on the simulator. It could prove valuable this weekend, but it will be the first time experiencing Suzuka in real-world conditions.

On the decision, the team’s chief trackside officer Mike Krack added: “It’s great that we’re able to give Jak another opportunity in FP1 as part of our ongoing commitment to developing young talent. He has been working hard, especially in the simulator back at Silverstone, and this session will allow him to continue building valuable track experience.

“It’s an important opportunity for him to keep progressing, while also contributing to the team by gathering useful data and feedback.”

The Japanese Grand Prix will be the final race until early May, after both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races were cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As such, teams will be given over a month to continue behind-the-scenes work on their cars, after a Mercedes-dominated opening to the season.