Aston Martin Aramco launches Driver Academy, signing Spaniard Mari Boya

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team launches its Driver Academy, a programme designed to identify, support, and develop exceptional driving talent, with 21-year-old Mari Boya from Spain becoming the Academy's first signed driver.

Aston Martin Aramco has launched its Driver Academy, welcoming Mari Boya as its first signed driver. The Spaniard, currently competing in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, will benefit from a comprehensive development programme designed to prepare young talent for the top echelons of motorsport.

A three-time Spanish karting champion, Mari Boya is currently showcasing his talent in FIA Formula 3 with Campos Racing. Born in Les, Spain, in 2004, Mari – full name: José María Navalón Boya – enjoyed a successful karting career at both national and international levels before transitioning to single seaters in 2020, where he finished as runner-up in the Formula Renault Eurocup. Having competed in FIA Formula 3 since 2023, the 21-year-old recently added to his growing résumé with a standout podium finish on the streets of Monaco.

Building on the success of the team's driver development programme, the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy is designed to identify and equip emerging talent with the skills needed to succeed in the top tiers of motorsport.

The Academy is committed to forging long-term partnerships with up-and-coming drivers, actively scouting the brightest young talent from across all levels of motorsport, from karting to single-seater racing series. The programme offers a comprehensive development pathway, including physical training, media coaching, simulator sessions, and the opportunity to attend race weekends to gain insight from the team and its drivers.

The Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy is also proud to announce a strategic partnership with DPK Racing, official team of FA Alonso Kart chassis, unlocking access to the combined karting expertise and global network of both DPK and Fernando Alonso. This collaboration strengthens The Academy's ability to identify and nurture the most promising young talent from the very start of their motorsport journey.

Mari Boya, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy driver, said:

"Joining the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy is a dream come true. It's 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.

"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'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."

Andy Cowell, CEO & Team Principal, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, added:

"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.

"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."

Mari will next take to the track at Austria’s Red Bull Ring for round six of the FIA Formula 3 Championship, where his suit and helmet will be branded with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Driver Academy logos.