The wider picture
Drivers have repeatedly cited concerns over the dramatic speed differences created by F1’s new hybrid engines. This ongoing issue came to a head during the Japanese Grand Prix on March 29, 2026, when Ollie Bearman, driving for Haas F1, was involved in a severe crash at ‘Spoon’ corner. The incident raised alarms about the safety protocols currently in place in Formula 1.
Bearman lost control of his car while traveling at an alarming speed of 190 mph (approximately 308 km/h), resulting in a crash that registered a staggering 50G impact. Fortunately, Bearman sustained only a right knee contusion and no fractures, but the severity of the crash has ignited a firestorm of criticism regarding the FIA’s handling of safety measures.
Carlos Sainz, a fellow driver, did not hold back in his criticism of the FIA, stating, “With the accident with Ollie, we’ve been warning them with these closing speeds that this was going to happen.” Sainz’s comments reflect a growing frustration among drivers who feel their concerns about safety are being ignored.
Following the crash, a safety car was deployed to manage the race conditions. Bearman was promptly taken to the FIA medical centre for evaluation, where he was found to have sustained no serious injuries. However, the incident has prompted renewed discussions about the safety of the sport, particularly in light of the high closing speeds that have been a point of contention among drivers.
Sainz further elaborated on the situation, expressing hope that Bearman’s accident would serve as a wake-up call for the FIA. “I hope it serves as one example, if they listen to teams and drivers… the racing is clearly not OK,” he said. His remarks highlight the urgent need for the FIA to reassess its safety protocols in light of the increasing speeds and potential dangers on the track.
In response to the incident, the FIA has announced that meetings will be held in April to address driver concerns regarding safety. A spokesperson for the FIA stated, “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.” This indicates that the governing body is taking the matter seriously, but the effectiveness of any proposed changes remains to be seen.
As the motorsport community awaits further developments, the focus will undoubtedly remain on the FIA’s response to this alarming incident. The crash has not only highlighted the risks associated with the current state of Formula 1 but has also underscored the importance of prioritizing driver safety in the sport.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any immediate changes to safety regulations, but the pressure is mounting for the FIA to take decisive action to prevent future incidents like Bearman’s crash.