🏁 A Comeback Full of Emotion
In a moment that blends nostalgia with redemption, Romain Grosjean will officially return to Formula 1 machinery this Friday at Mugello, driving a 2023-spec Haas VF-23. It’s his first time back in an F1 car since his terrifying Bahrain Grand Prix crash in 2020, which brought his F1 career to a dramatic halt.
The French-Swiss driver, a Haas mainstay from 2016 to 2020, will be reunited with many of his former teammates—including current team principal Ayao Komatsu, who will serve once again as his race engineer, just like the old Lotus and Haas days.
🔥 The Incident That Changed Everything
Grosjean’s last F1 race ended with one of the most infamous crashes in recent memory. On Lap 1 of the 2020 Bahrain GP, his car pierced a barrier and burst into flames after a ruptured fuel line ignited. Thanks to the Halo device and Grosjean’s quick instincts, he escaped with burns to his hands and legs—but never got his proper farewell.
Though Mercedes once planned to let him drive in a private test, COVID restrictions in 2021 canceled those plans.
🏎️ Back in the Saddle at Mugello
This week, Grosjean finally gets that long-awaited closure. He’ll drive the Haas VF-23, previously piloted by Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hülkenberg, as part of the team’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program.
“I’m incredibly grateful to [team owner] Gene Haas and Ayao Komatsu for inviting me. To come back and have this outing with my old team is truly something special,” said Grosjean.
Even more emotional: Grosjean will wear the helmet design created by his children, which he originally intended to use in what should have been his final F1 race.
👀 James Hinchcliffe Joins the Action
Also taking the wheel at Mugello is James Hinchcliffe, former IndyCar star and F1TV analyst. This marks his first time in a Formula 1 car, and fans are eager to see how the six-time IndyCar winner adapts to the VF-23.
🧢 Grosjean’s Post-F1 Career
Since leaving F1, Grosjean has had a solid run in IndyCar, racing with Dale Coyne, Andretti, and most recently Prema in a reserve role. Despite his new direction, his heart clearly still beats for Formula 1.
“I’m also keen to be of use regarding the trackside agenda with the VF-23,” he added. “It’s great the team now has this TPC program as part of its ongoing development.”
🎮 Bring the Race Home with KXZ Store!
Want to celebrate Grosjean’s F1 return your way? KXZ Store is your go-to hub for game top-ups, gift cards, and digital entertainment credits. Whether you're sim-racing at home or catching live coverage abroad, KXZ helps fund your motorsport weekend like a pro.
Grab a gift card now and power your Race Week—even from another country.