FIA release statement after huge Oliver Bearman Japanese GP crash

The FIA has issued "clarifications" in a statement released following Oliver Bearman's 50G crash at the Japanese Grand Prix. 

On Lap 21, Bearman slammed into the barrier at Spoon curve after closing in on Alpine's Franco Colapinto at high closing speeds as Colapinto harvested energy whilst Bearman deployed his batteries.

After destroying a brake marker board, Bearman slammed broadside into the wall, but climbed away unaided, although he was seen to be limping and holding his right leg and ankle. 

He was taken to the medical centre for an X-ray, which proved he had not sustained any fractures, and only suffered heavy bruising in the accident, which had a closing speed of around 45kph, 29.7mph.

Post-race, GPDA director Carlos Sainz claimed that the drivers' safety concerns had been ignored over the issue of closing speeds in races, with the FIA only deciding to change qualifying power rules.

The governing body has now released a statement, in which it said "any potential adjustments require careful simulation and detailed analysis."

"Following the accident involving Oliver Bearman at the Japanese Grand Prix and the contribution of high closing speeds in the accident, the FIA would like to provide the following clarifications," began the statement.

"Since their introduction, the 2026 regulations have been the subject of ongoing discussions between the FIA, Teams, Power Unit Manufacturers, Drivers and FOM. 

"By design, these regulations include a number of adjustable parameters, particularly in relation to energy management, which allow for optimisation based on real-world data.

"It has been the consistent position of all stakeholders that a structured review would take place after the opening phase of the season, to allow for sufficient data to be gathered and analysed. 

"A number of meetings are therefore scheduled in April to assess the operation of the new regulations and to determine whether any refinements are required.

"Any potential adjustments, particularly those related to energy management, require careful simulation and detailed analysis. 

"The FIA will continue to work in close and constructive collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure the best possible outcome for the sport, and safety will always remain a core element of the FIA’s mission. 

"At this stage, any speculation regarding the nature of potential changes would be premature. Further updates will be communicated in due course."