The inaugural member of the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy, Mari Boya, climbs the next rung of the motorsport ladder in 2026, graduating to Formula 2. As he prepares for his first season in the series, he looks back on a year of progress on and off the track.
The turning of the year marks a time of change, renewed ambition, reflection, and setting goals.
It's a moment to look back at what's been achieved in the previous 12 months, and an opportunity to assess how to use that as a springboard for the next 12.
Certainly, that's the case for Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy member Mari Boya, who looks back on 2025 with a sense of pride. He recorded a victory and several podiums on the way to securing third in the Formula 3 standings, while also sharing how he's been introspective to unlock further performance.
That, coupled with becoming the first member of our Driver Academy, makes for a very positive year – one that has set the foundations for an exciting 2026.
Fresh from completing F2 testing alongside PREMA in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, we caught up with Mari to further explore this juncture in his career.
Mari, you've just had your first taste of F2 machinery at Yas Marina Circuit. How did you find it?
"I really enjoyed the experience of driving the car. It's obviously faster and more powerful than F3 so that's exciting.
"I did some simulator testing beforehand, so I knew roughly what to expect from the car and circuit at F2 speeds, and I was pleased with how the test went.
"Working with PREMA for the first time was really good, too. I feel we adapted to one another quickly and I want to thank them for all their help."
You spent time with PREMA at both the Qatar and Abu Dhabi F2 rounds. What were the key things you learned?
"One of the main aims of being with them was to meet everyone in the team and be well prepared for the Abu Dhabi test.
"We wanted to have all the run plans for the test established, and I wanted to get an idea of how the team works and what they want from their drivers.
"It was important to build a relationship with them as early as possible so we could make a quick start to the test. Spending time with them was great and I think it allowed us to maximise our running in Abu Dhabi."
The dream is to race in Formula One and driving an F1 car in the sim felt like my first experience of that.
Looking back, what are your main reflections on 2025?
"The big thing I learned was that, as a driver, you need to focus only on the things you can control.
"In racing, there are many factors which you cannot control, so it's important not to spend too much time on those, and instead make sure that everything that is in your control you approach the best you can. Do that, and everything becomes a bit easier.
"I've also learned how important it is to adapt to situations that you weren't expecting, because anything can happen in motorsport."
You travelled with Aston Martin Aramco to the Mexico City Grand Prix in October. What was that like?
"It was a really cool experience. I'm very grateful for how the team looked after me, including both Lance and Fernando who were kind and gave me lots of advice.
"One moment I remember well was with Fernando. I sat in some post-session debriefs and he sat next to me to explain anything I didn't understand and answer any questions I had. He helped me a lot. I feel as though I grew a great deal as a driver from that weekend.
"I also had fun meeting some Aston Martin Aramco fans in Mexico, and I can't wait to meet more next season."
You recently spent time on the simulator at the AMR Technology Campus. How was that experience?
"I really enjoyed my first time in the sim. The dream is to race in Formula One and driving an F1 car in the sim felt like my first experience of that. It was incredible.
"I was looking forward to that day a lot and I'm excited for more laps as soon as possible."
What goals have you set yourself for next year?
"My main goal is to enjoy the season. If you enjoy your racing, you'll be fast, and then the results will come. I think that's so important to remember and it's something I've worked on a lot.
"I'm also looking forward to racing at some new tracks that aren't on the F3 calendar. That will be a good experience and an exciting challenge."
What preparation have you done so far for 2026?
"I've been working hard for quite a while so I can start next season as strong as possible.
"I feel I'm in the best moment of my career so far, but I know I can improve a lot and this is a really good feeling. When you know where you need to work and improve, it feels as though your potential and ability can go a lot higher, which is exciting.
"I have no problem with the hard work needed to keep improving as a driver, either, because I love it. I enjoy the preparation and working every day because I know that's what will make me a better driver. I can't wait to see what we can achieve next year."
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