The Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team has launched its official Driver Academy, with Spanish FIA Formula 3 driver Mari Boya announced as the programme’s first signing. This comprehensive initiative aims to identify, nurture, and develop emerging motorsport talent, underlining the team’s commitment to building a sustainable future in F1 through long-term investment in youth development.
For Aston Martin, this marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that focuses not only on on-track performance but also on fostering the next generation of elite racing drivers through an integrated and structured approach.
Mari Boya: A proven competitor in junior single-seater racing
Currently competing in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Campos Racing, Mari Boya brings a strong résumé and growing momentum to the Academy. He currently holds 13th place in the drivers’ standings with 26 points and recently secured an impressive third-place finish in the Monaco Feature Race.
Born in Les, Spain, in 2004, José María Navalón Boya began his racing career in karting, where he became a three-time Spanish national champion. He transitioned to single-seaters in 2020 and immediately impressed by finishing as runner-up in the Formula Renault Eurocup. Since debuting in FIA Formula 3 in 2023, he has continued to demonstrate consistent progress and the ability to perform at a high level in one of the sport’s most competitive junior categories.
“A dream come true”
Boya expressed his gratitude and ambition as he joined the Academy, emphasising the significance of this milestone in his career.
“Joining the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy is a dream come true. It is a unique opportunity to learn from a team with so much ambition in Formula One. My goal is to absorb as much knowledge as possible, contribute in every way I can, and continue showing my potential on track.”
Reflecting on the environment he is now part of, Boya added, “Being part of such a prestigious Formula One team and stepping into the Aston Martin Aramco environment is incredibly special. The AMR Technology Campus is an inspiring place to be, and I am excited for the opportunities ahead as I continue working hard and growing as a driver.”
He also highlighted the importance of having experienced role models within the team, stating, “Having role models like Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll and Pedro de la Rosa within the team makes this journey even more meaningful. I could not be happier. My focus now is to repay the team’s trust with strong performances.”
Boya will debut the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy branding on his race suit and helmet at the next round of the FIA Formula 3 Championship, set to take place at Austria’s Red Bull Ring.
Aston Martin to adopt a holistic approach to driver development
The Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy will provide a comprehensive development structure tailored to prepare young drivers for the demands of elite motorsport. The programme combines simulator training, racecraft improvement, technical debriefing, physical fitness, and media coaching into a singular path of progression.
Moreover, Academy members will attend race weekends, immersing themselves in the F1 environment and gaining direct exposure to the inner workings of a top-tier racing team. This strategic integration aims to accelerate both their technical development and personal maturity, laying the foundations for long-term success.
Andy Cowell: “A privilege to guide young talent”
Andy Cowell, CEO and Team Principal of the Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team, welcomed Boya to the programme and outlined the Academy’s wider purpose.
“Firstly, we are very happy to welcome Mari to the new programme. He is a promising talent with a strong track record, natural speed, and a determined mindset, but he is also an incredibly well-rounded athlete – a trait we value in motorsport. Our aim is to support his development in every area, from racecraft and technical feedback to media, fitness, and personal growth, preparing him for the demands of top-level racing.”
Cowell then explained the vision behind the Academy itself: “We are also proud to launch the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One 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.”
Strengthening talent pipelines with DPK Racing
To further enhance its ability to scout early talent, the Academy has proactively formed a strategic partnership with DPK Racing, the official team of the FA Alonso Kart chassis. By bringing together DPK’s extensive karting expertise and Fernando Alonso’s global influence, this collaboration significantly expands the Academy’s reach into the grassroots levels of motorsport. Consequently, it enables the identification of future stars from their very earliest competitive experiences.
Moreover, this partnership substantially strengthens the Academy’s capability to support drivers throughout their entire progression—from karting all the way to the top tiers of single-seater racing. As a result, it ensures seamless continuity in training and mentorship during every critical phase of a driver’s development.
A New Chapter Begins for Boya and Aston Martin at the Red Bull Ring
Boya’s next appearance in FIA Formula 3 will take place at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, where he will compete under the colours of the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy for the first time. With the Academy’s branding now featured on his racewear, Boya will enter the next phase of his career with the backing of a F1 team invested in his future.
The establishment of the Driver Academy signals Aston Martin Aramco’s growing commitment to shaping the sport from the ground up, as it looks to build a pipeline of talented, well-prepared drivers for the years to come.
