Aston Martin launches F1 Driver Academy, presents first recruit

In a significant step toward nurturing the future of Formula 1, Aston Martin has officially launched its very own Driver Academy, a program aimed at identifying and developing promising young racing talent.

The team announced Spanish FIA Formula 3 driver Mari Boya as the inaugural member of the initiative, marking a new chapter in Team Silverstone’s commitment to fostering the next generation of F1 stars.

The Driver Academy, developed in collaboration with two-time F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso’s karting school, builds on the team’s existing driver development efforts, which have previously supported talents like Felipe Drugovich.

The program is designed to provide young drivers with comprehensive support, combining on-track training with off-track development to prepare them for the pinnacle of motorsport.

Mari Boya Joins the Fold

Mari Boya, a 21-year-old Spaniard, brings an impressive resume to the Aston Martin Driver Academy. A three-time Spanish karting champion, Boya has demonstrated his potential with a successful career at the grass roots level in both national and international events.

Transitioning to single-seaters in 2020, he secured a runner-up finish in the Formula Renault Eurocup before competing in the highly competitive FIA Formula 3 championship since 2023. His standout performance includes a podium finish at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix.

“Joining the Aston Martin driver academy is a dream come true,” Boya shared, expressing his excitement.

“It’s a unique opportunity to learn from a team with so much ambition in Formula 1. My goal is to absorb as much knowledge as possible, contribute in every way I can, and continue showing my potential on track.

“Being part of such a prestigious Formula 1 team and stepping into the Aston Martin environment is incredibly special. The AMR Technology Campus is an inspiring place to be, and I’m excited for the opportunities ahead as I continue working hard and growing as a driver.

“Having role models like Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll, and Pedro de la Rosa within the team makes this journey even more meaningful. I couldn’t be happier. My focus now is to repay the team’s trust with strong performances.”

Boya’s connection to Alonso’s karting school further strengthens the synergy between the academy and the team’s long-term vision.

A Vision for the Future

The launch of the Driver Academy reflects Aston Martin’s broader ambition to compete at the forefront of Formula 1 while investing in the sport’s future. Aston CEO and team principal Andy Cowell emphasized the program’s purpose.

“We are proud to launch the Aston Martin F1 team driver academy, a programme designed to identify, support, and develop exceptional driving talent.

“This initiative gives us the opportunity to shape the next generation of drivers, helping them grow into the complete package both on and off the track.

“Guiding young talent through some of the most challenging and competitive phases of their careers is not only a privilege, but a shared passion across the entire team.”

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The academy will provide its drivers with access to world-class facilities at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone, as well as mentorship from Aston Martin’s experienced drivers and staff, including Alonso and Stroll.

This holistic approach aims to equip young drivers with the technical, physical, and mental skills needed to succeed in the high-pressure world of Formula 1.

With Aston Martin becoming the ninth F1 team to establish a driver academy, only Haas remains without such a program. The move aligns with the sport’s growing emphasis on developing young talent, as teams seek to secure the best prospects in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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