Former F1 driver Romain Grosjean, who stepped away from Formula 1 for five years, recently took part in a “Testing of Previous Car” event at Mugello. This marked Grosjean’s first drive in F1 machinery since his crash at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, where he suffered burns to his hands following a fiery accident. His return to the track in Italy has reignited conversations about his potential F1 comeback, contingent on the right circumstances and team support.
Grosjean’s Emotional Return and Career Since F1
Since the 2020 crash, Grosjean moved to IndyCar, competing from 2021 to 2024 and achieving six podium finishes and three pole positions. At Mugello, the Frenchman encountered rainy conditions but completed the test successfully. His performance received praise from former and current rivals, leading to an emotional reaction from Grosjean, demonstrating how much the sport still means to him.
What Conditions Would Lead to a Return?
In an interview with L’Equipe, Grosjean spoke candidly about the possibility of rejoining the Formula 1 grid at age 39. Reflecting on the test, he said,
“How can I put it? Experiencing this day showed me that I hadn’t lost it and that I still had what it takes,”
Romain Grosjean stated. He acknowledged the hurdles ahead, emphasizing that a comeback would require specific conditions, including interest from a team willing to sign him.
Grosjean added that while life remains unpredictable, he hopes to be remembered for more than his last F1 race in Bahrain. Describing his final moments on track during the test, he expressed,
“On my last lap, when I braked for the first time, I felt that the tyres were worn out, so I eased off the accelerator and enjoyed the moment, the sound of the engine and the day. And it was great!”
Implications for Grosjean’s Future and F1 Landscape
The test at Mugello offers tangible proof that Grosjean can still handle F1 machines, which may open doors if a team faces a vacancy or looks for experienced talent. His return would bring a blend of experience and fresh enthusiasm to the grid. Meanwhile, the F1 community continues to watch key developments, including driver moves like Yuki Tsunoda’s exit from Red Bull and leadership changes such as Horner’s move to Aston Martin, which may indirectly influence opportunities for drivers like Grosjean.
