Esteban Ocon Reflects on “Most Violent” Crash in Formula 1 Career
Esteban Ocon has described his crash at the 2022 Miami Grand Prix as potentially the most violent incident he has faced in his Formula 1 career. The former Alpine driver recounted the traumatic experience and its aftermath during an interview on the French YouTube channel Legend.
In an in-depth conversation, Ocon revealed details of the harrowing crash that left him with a severe impact of 42G. “For people who want to see that crash, it’s not that impressive, but I hit a concrete wall,” he said.
The incident occurred during FP3 at the Miami International Autodrome when Ocon lost control of his car, crashing backwards into the wall.
A Difficult Recovery
After the crash, Ocon experienced significant physical distress, recalling, “I took 42G… I hit both my knees and could barely walk afterwards.” He faced a challenging recovery, which reached a concerning point when he collapsed in the shower the following morning due to loss of balance.
Despite the physical toll, Ocon showcased impressive resilience by starting the race from the back of the grid and finishing in eighth place, showcasing his determination and skill as a driver.
Health Concerns Post-Crash
Ocon also discussed alarming health symptoms following the crash, stating, “I was peeing red, that was not great!” This raises concerns about the long-term health impacts of such high-impact collisions in Formula 1, especially as he relates it to other athletes, like French rugby player Sebastien Chabal, who have faced issues due to multiple concussions.
Remarkably, 2022 was a standout year for Ocon, who scored a career-high 92 points, mirroring his previous best performance in 2017. His consistent performance earned him eighth place in the championship, equalling his earlier success with Force India.
The perils of F1 Racing
Ocon’s reflection on his Miami crash serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers present in Formula 1 racing. As drivers continue to push the limits on the track, discussions about safety and health remain ever crucial.
With Ocon’s experience highlighting the violent forces at play in the sport, fans and drivers alike must remain vigilant about the physical consequences of high-stakes racing.