British Formula 1 driver Ollie Bearman, 20, sustained a knee injury after a high-speed 140mph crash during the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

The Incident at Spoon Curve

The accident unfolded on lap 22 as Bearman rapidly closed in on Alpine’s Franco Colapinto approaching Spoon Curve. With significant pace advantage, Bearman attempted an overtake to the left but veered onto the grass. He struck multiple polystyrene distance markers, spun 360 degrees, and slammed sideways into the outer barrier in a 50G impact that scattered gravel across the track.

Bearman exited the Haas car unassisted but struggled to walk, hopping on his left leg with marshals’ support. Unable to bear weight on his right leg, he collapsed before the medical car transported him for an on-site X-ray.

Haas Team Update

Team officials confirmed Bearman remained alert and communicative following the crash. He suffered a right-knee contusion with swelling but no fractures. A team statement noted: “Ollie reports feeling OK and sustained no fractures from the incident.”

Race Impact

The red flag triggered a safety car period, enabling Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli to pit and emerge in the lead, positioning him to dominate the restarted race.

Team Principal’s Assessment

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu described the event: “He faced a huge closing speed on Colapinto, took avoiding action, went onto the grass, and crashed. It was scary.” When questioned about Colapinto’s movements, Komatsu clarified: “No, the primary issue was the massive closing speed.”