Aston Martin completes AMR24 shakedown, Crawford named junior

Aston Martin had their first track run with the AMR24 at Silverstone, as they name Jak Crawford as its new development driver.

Post its online launch, Aston Martin hit the track at Silverstone with the AMR24 for a shakedown. It was Lance Stroll in the cockpit in the morning hours, with Fernando Alonso going around in the afternoon, while reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne looked from the sides.

Aston Martin joined Stake F1 Team and Haas in undertaking a shakedown with their 2024 car ahead of next week’s official pre-season test in Bahrain. The Silverstone-based team showcased its corporate livery with a modified version of AMR24.

“The AMR24 ran really reliably and without any issues all day,” said Tom McCullough. “It was a successful filming day with the opportunity to secure some data in the background of the full 200km, with Lance running in the morning and Fernando in the afternoon.

“The way the car, our first from the AMRTC, has been built has been really impressive. Every year it gets better and better. So a big thank you to everyone for all of the hard work.”

Here’s a set of photos and videos –

Here’s video: https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1757001958232105449?s=20

https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1757051861167665602?s=20

https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1757016262327091245?s=20

https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1756989836861362555?s=20

https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1756993683969216868?s=20

https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/1757106232488259780?s=20

In other news, Aston Martin also announced F2 driver Crawford as its new young driver in their programme. His role will include fitness work, media training and even simulator work. He will also get track time in the AMR22 in private running.

Crawford moves to Aston Martin from spending several years with Red Bull team. “I am proud to take this next step in my career,” he said. “The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team is a great place to learn and grow, and the programme ahead sounds exciting.

“I cannot wait to start working with everyone – especially on the simulator where I can make a contribution to the team’s performance on race weekends. I’m thrilled to get the chance to drive the AMR22 car later this year. It is a big motivator for me to work hard and make the most of this great opportunity.”

Team boss Mike Krack added: “A big welcome to Jak as he begins an exciting journey with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team. He has shown great potential throughout his junior career and we look forward to supporting his learning and development as he steps into the AMR22 for the first time.

“As part of the growth of the team we want to offer talented young drivers a valuable development programme and I have no doubt Jak will flourish in this environment. We are fortunate to have state-of-the art facilities and world-class personnel, who will prepare Jak to race at the very highest level.”

Here’s Drive to Survive S6 teaser which will be aired on February 23: https://x.com/F1/status/1757072701938659349?s=20

Here’s Fernando Alonso about Lewis Hamilton and his own future

Here’s Aston Martin launch

Here’s Aston Martin undertaking Pirelli tyre testing

Here’s Fernando Alonso on Andrian Newey

Here’s Fernando Alonso on the reason he may leave F1

Here’s link to a F1 Discord channel, join in to interact