Grosjean returns to F1 with Haas test at Mugello
- Kavi Khandelwal
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Written by Kavi Khandelwal
Romain Grosjean returns to Formula One as he tests the Haas F1 car at the iconic Mugello circuit, captivating the motorsport world. Since his miraculous escape from the fiery inferno at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, it is the first time that the French driver is back in F1 machinery.
Sources confirm that Grosjean will pilot the 2023-spec Haas VF-23, the team's car from two seasons ago. This return is more than just a simple test drive; it represents a remarkable moment of closure and celebration for a driver whose F1 career was cut short by one of the most shocking accidents in the sport's modern history.
On the opening lap of the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, Grosjean's Haas speared into the trackside barrier at over 118 mph (190 km/h). On impact, the car split in half and caused the fuel cell to rupture.
This led to 28 terrifying seconds in which the car was instantly engulfed in a massive fireball and Grosjean was trapped within. In a testament of his own will to survive and the incredible safety advancements made in the sport, the French driver emerged from the flames. He escaped with burns to his hands, and a deep psychological scar that brought his 179-race F1 career to an end.
However, Grosjean has not faded from the racing world after leaving F1. He successfully transitioned to the highly competitive IndyCar Series in the United States. His talent and passion for open-wheel racing continued to shine, earning him podiums and new fans.
This test at Mugello is seen as a personal opportunity for the driver. It allows him to experience modern F1 machinery once again, and to create a new, positive memory in an F1 car.
Reacting to the development, Grosjean shared: "To say I’m excited to get back behind the wheel of an F1 car would naturally be an understatement. I really can’t believe it’s been almost five years, but to come back and have this outing with my old team is truly something special.
“I’m excited to see everyone, I’m sure we’ll spend a bit of time reminiscing about the old days, but I’m also keen to be of use regarding the trackside agenda with the VF-23 – it’s great the team now has the TPC program as part of its on-going development.
“Finally, my kids had designed my helmet for what was meant to be my final Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi back in 2020 – I’m at last going to be able to give it a go in an F1 car on Friday.”
Along with Grosjean, James Hinchcliffe, former IndyCar driver, will also be testing the Haas VF-23.
