The Formula 1 rookie rotation program officially kicks off at Suzuka, and Jak Crawford will be the first young driver to get a real lap in during Free Practice 1 at the Japanese Grand Prix. Teams are finally turning simulator hours into seat time, and Crawford gets the first shot.

Rookie rotation starts at Suzuka

All 11 teams must hand over four practice sessions during the season to a rookie - two sessions replacing each regular race driver - as part of a new rule meant to speed up driver development. The idea is simple: give young drivers actual kilometers, real experience and more confidence behind an F1 wheel.

Suzuka is not a training-wheel circuit

Suzuka is one of the most technical tracks on the calendar. It has tricky corners, a fast rhythm and very little margin for mistakes. That makes it a tough place to start, but also a very effective learning ground.

Crawford takes Alonso's seat for FP1

During the third round of the 2026 season, Jak Crawford will replace Fernando Alonso for Free Practice 1 at the Japanese Grand Prix. This marks an important step in Crawford’s path within the team: moving from simulator duties toward live track sessions on a Grand Prix weekend.

From simulator to real rubber

This FP1 outing will be Crawford’s first time running in Free Practice 1 as the team’s third driver. He has spent a lot of time in the team simulator, but Suzuka will be his first real test on a track he has not raced before. Expect the team to focus on setup work, learning tire behavior and giving Crawford room to adapt.

“I’m really excited to get behind the wheel and drive for the team at Suzuka. It’s a historic but demanding circuit, and I can’t wait to put simulator learning into practice on the track. Big thanks to the team for this opportunity. As in my previous FP1 outings, I want to make the most of it and learn as much as possible,” Crawford said.

Why this matters

  • More real laps: Rookies get on-track time instead of just simulator reps.
  • Faster development: Teams hope the program helps young drivers graduate to full-time seats sooner.
  • Tough test early: Starting the program at Suzuka means instant pressure, which can speed up learning.

In short, the rookie rotation is now active and Suzuka will be the first real proving ground. Crawford gets the first crack at turning sim work into on-track progress, and everyone will be watching how quickly he adapts to one of F1’s trickiest circuits.