Aston Martin complete Red Bull Ring test with banned rear wing endplate used

The rear wing armchair of Aston Martin was prohibited starting from 2023.

Aston Martin youngster Jak Crawford completed his maiden Formula 1 test at the Red Bull Ring using an F1 2022 car, with a part that was later banned.

Testing of Previous Car [TPC] rules do not prohibit teams from running parts which became banned in later seasons, with onlookers noticing that Aston Martin’s innovative ‘armchair’ rear wing endplates were in use by Crawford on the AMR22 in Austria.

Aston Martin youngster completes first F1 test at Red Bull Ring

The AMR22 employed rear wing endplates to generate additional downforce on high-downforce circuits. This design cleverly bypassed the 2022 regulations by curving the endplate upwards and around, thereby creating extra high pressure on the car.

It had been described as “game-changing” during the 2022 season, but the innovation was ultimately banned for F1 2023, though the endplates were spotted on the AMR22 for Crawford’s first test – with Aston Martin allowed to use this part in a private test.

The team announced that 19-year-old American driver Crawford completed his first Formula 1 test at the Red Bull Ring, driving over 400km. This equates to around 100 laps of the Styrian hills, providing him with valuable experience at the highest level of motorsport.

He is currently competing in his second season of Formula 2, where he aims to perform impressively enough to eventually secure a seat in F1. He will be returning to this series.

Interesting to see the banned AMR22 rear wing endplates return in this test. @ScarbsTech and I picked this out as one of our top moments of the 2022 season – https://t.co/IdohhemVLV #F1 https://t.co/uh0KA8Z5Ew pic.twitter.com/XPg5xVLqKq

— Cllr Sam S Collins (@NorthHertsSam) June 5, 2024

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Crawford expressed his gratitude towards everyone at Aston Martin Aramco who contributed to their success and supported them during the test, saying, “A big thank you to all of you.”

My initial experience in an F1 car was fantastic, and I relished every lap. It was a flawless and seamless day for us, devoid of any problems, and we accomplished all the runs we had planned to.

My primary objective was to familiarize myself with the car’s systems and to adapt quickly. This was a new learning experience, unlike anything I’ve previously driven, particularly in high-speed areas. However, I believe I adjusted quite well and am eager to see what comes next.

Robert Sattler, the director of Aston Martin’s evolution programme, stated, “Watching a young driver complete their first laps in a Formula 1 car is always a special moment.”

Jak has gained valuable experience from a full day of running that he can apply to his future tests in the programme.

“We are aware that transitioning from F2 to F1 driving style isn’t simple, however, Jak adjusted to the car rapidly and collaborated effectively with the team to enhance his performance as the day advanced.”

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