Aston Martin has made a significant move towards shaping its future in Formula 1 by establishing a driver academy. The team announced that Mari Boya, a promising 21-year-old Spanish driver currently competing in Formula 3, will be the academy’s inaugural member. This initiative aims to cultivate young talent, preparing them for potential promotions to Formula 2 and eventually F1.
Boya has demonstrated notable skill throughout his racing career, including achievements in karting and the Formula Regional European Championship. His performance in F3 has also been commendable, highlighted by a podium finish in Monaco earlier this year and a victory with Campos Racing last season. His signing marks an important step for Aston Martin as they strive to maintain a steady influx of drivers ready for the challenges of F1.
The decision to launch this academy aligns Aston Martin with other major teams in the sport like Ferrari and McLaren, which already have established development programs. Notably, the current driver situation for Aston Martin is uncertain, as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll are expected to be out of contract at the end of the 2026 season.
In an official statement, Boya expressed his excitement for joining the academy and the unique opportunities it provides for his growth as a driver. He aims to make the most of this chance to learn and prove his capabilities.
Aston Martin’s team principal, Andy Cowell, underscored the importance of developing well-rounded athletes in motorsport and the academy’s focus on supporting Boya not only in racecraft but also in fitness, media training, and personal development.
This proactive approach by Aston Martin not only boosts their competitiveness in the F1 landscape but also showcases their commitment to nurturing the next generation of racing talent, providing hope for fans and aspiring drivers alike.