The remains of Romain Grosjean's car from his infamous fiery crash in 2020 are set to go on display as part of a new F1 exhibition. Grosjean hit the wall at high speed during the opening lap of the Bahrain Grand Prix, where his Haas was engulfed in flames and split into half. After 28 seconds, the Frenchman was able to free himself from the cockpit. He was mostly unharmed but suffered burns to his hands. The remnants of the chassis have been kept under wraps ever since, but now will be displayed at the upcoming Formula 1 Exhibition in Madrid, in a purpose-built room titled 'Survival'. There will also be a large video installation showing previously unseen footage of the crash.
Grosjean reflects on crash
Reflecting back on the incident, Grosjean credits the survival cell with saving his life. "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," he explained in an interview with the Formula 1 Exhibition. "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 [van der Merwe] 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 world's first official Formula 1 Exhibition will open on 24 March 2023 at the IFEMA MADRID, offering fans an insight into the past, present and future of the sport.
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