Romain Grosjean Reflects On Horrific 2020 Crash As Haas Chassis Goes On Display
The new F1 exhibition in Madrid will feature Romain Grosjean's Haas chassis, which was involved in a terrifying crash during the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix. During the race's opening lap, Grosjean's car collided with the barriers at a speed of roughly 120 miles per hour, causing it to burst into flames.
Grosjean was trapped inside the car for 28 seconds as the FIA medical team, composed of Dr Ian Roberts and Alan van der Merwe, worked to free him. The incident was a heart-stopping moment for F1 fans and players alike.
Thanks to a close collaboration with Haas, permission has been granted to display this unique piece of F1 history to the public, following a three-year period in which the chassis was kept under wraps. The inclusion of the car at the exhibition is sure to be a highlight for visitors interested in the sport's rich history.
The Swiss-French driver has reflected on the horrific accident during an interview with the Formula 1 Exhibition. He said:
“From my point of view, it was a big accident but I didn’t realise the impact or how violent it was from the outside.
“It was only the next day when I asked someone to show me what it looked like that I realised. My wife was actually watching that race with my dad and my kids. They will remember that moment their entire life. They were just spectators waiting to hear something… waiting to see something from Bahrain.
“I had to break the headrest, punching it with my helmet and then I eventually managed to get my helmet through and stand up in the seat. I realised my left foot was stuck into the chassis and I pulled as hard as I could on my left leg. My shoe stayed in the chassis but my foot came loose so I was free to exit the car.
“It was 120 kilos of fuel plus the battery - both were on fire. Dr Ian Roberts, Alan from the medical car and one fireman were trying to open a gap in the fire to help me get out. I believe that helped me at least to get a vision of where I had to go and where the exit was.
“The survival cell is there for you in case of a huge impact. I was intact inside the shell. The chassis is still in one piece, the halo is there and apart from the damage and burn it is still as it should be. I guess that saved my life.”
The chassis of Grosjean's car is set to be exhibited in a dedicated room that has been specially constructed and named 'Survival.' Visitors to the exhibition will also have the opportunity to view previously unreleased footage from the crash, enhancing their understanding of the event and its impact on F1.