Former Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean is set to return to an F1 car for the first time since his dramatic crash at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix. Haas confirmed on X that Grosjean will drive the VF-23 during a Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) session at Mugello, Italy, on Friday.
Grosjean’s last Formula 1 race ended in a terrifying accident on November 29, 2020. On the opening lap, his Haas collided with Daniil Kvyat’s AlphaTauri, hitting the barrier at 192 kph (119 mph). The car split in two and erupted into flames. Grosjean was trapped for 27 seconds before escaping with burns and a sprained ankle. The halo safety device, which he had previously criticised, played a key role in saving his life.
The Mugello session is more than just a test run; it is a symbolic return to the sport where Grosjean spent five seasons. He joined Haas in 2016 and became a familiar figure on the F1 grid, known for his aggressive driving and occasional podium finishes. During his career, he earned 10 podiums over 179 starts, mostly with Lotus before moving to Haas.
Since leaving Formula 1, Grosjean has built a successful career outside the F1 spotlight. He has competed in IndyCar, achieving six podium finishes, and currently races in endurance events with Lamborghini in IMSA. In addition, he serves as a reserve driver for Prema Racing, maintaining a connection to the world of competitive motorsport.
Driving the VF-23, Haas’ 2023 car, allows Grosjean to reconnect with modern F1 machinery while revisiting the team where he experienced both highs and lows. The session will give fans a rare opportunity to see him back in a Formula 1 cockpit after nearly five years away from the sport.
The F1 community has expressed excitement about Grosjean’s return. Social media reactions highlight both nostalgia for his racing career and admiration for the safety advances in Formula 1, particularly the halo device, which has since become a standard feature across all F1 cars.
