Former F1 star issues shock verdict on return

IndyCar and former F1 driver Romain Grosjean — Photo: © IMAGO

Formula 1

Former F1 star issues shock verdict on return

An axed F1 star was given an opportunity

Sheona Mountford F1 Journalist

Motorsport journalist working in F1 since 2024.

Tuesday 30 September 2025 17:02

A former Formula 1 star has revealed he could see himself coming back to the sport after completing a recent car test.

After four seasons away, former Haas ace Romain Grosjean got the opportunity to get back in an F1 cockpit last week, testing an old Haas car at Mugello Circuit in Italy.

Although he has been racing in IndyCar over the last few seasons, the last time Grosjean competed in an F1 car was at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, where a terrifying crash saw his car engulfed in flames, and he was lucky to escape.

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Now, after getting back behind the wheel of an F1 car, Grosjean believes he still has it, and admits he could see himself returning to the sport under certain conditions.

Grosjean on F1 return

Speaking to L’Equipe after the test, Grosjean was quizzed on whether he would ever come back to the sport, and the 39-year-old offered a surprise verdict.

“Yes, I could see myself coming back. But for that to happen, there would have to be specific conditions, a team that wants me.

“You never know what life has in store, but for now, the plan was not to be remembered for Bahrain, to get out of the car a little more elegantly than last time.

“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!"

F1 Romain Grosjean