Formula 1 experienced a moment of tension at the 2026 Japanese GP, and Franco Colapinto revealed how he witnessed Oliver Bearman’s heavy crash up close. The Alpine driver described the situation as dangerous and highlighted the huge speed difference between the cars at the time of the incident.
Read more F1: Hamilton points out lack of power after Japan race
The Argentine stated that he felt practically defenseless seeing his rival approach. According to him, the scenario was unusual and highlighted a high risk in the racing conditions at Suzuka.
The accident happened on lap 22, when Bearman tried to overtake Colapinto at the Spoon curve. The speed difference between the two cars was decisive for the outcome of the maneuver.
“It was really strange, to be honest, I felt kind of like a sitting duck,” the driver stated. “The speed difference was very large, it felt like I was on a slow lap and he was on a fast lap.”
According to Colapinto, Bearman was coming more than 50 km/h faster at the time of the overtaking attempt. While trying to swerve, the Haas driver ended up going onto the grass, lost control, and collided heavily with the barrier.
The Argentine reported that the situation became even more delicate due to the circuit layout. “It’s a flat-out corner, and when the straights aren’t completely straight, it gets even more complicated. This makes everything riskier,” he explained.
Read more F1: Bearman’s heavy crash causes Safety Car in Japan
He also highlighted that the moment was scary even before the crash. “When I looked in the mirror, he was already spinning on the grass. Even while spinning, he still overtook me, imagine the speed difference,” he said.
Despite the severity of the impact, Bearman suffered no fractures, although he had a bruise on his right knee after the 50G accident. The driver managed to get out of the car and was taken to the medical center for evaluation.
Colapinto showed relief upon learning that his rival was okay after the incident. “I’m glad he’s okay. I saw him walking in the paddock and everything seems to be fine,” he commented.
The Argentine also revealed that he didn’t have the opportunity to speak directly with Bearman after the race, but sought information about his condition. “I asked if he was okay. It was a very heavy crash, so I was worried. Luckily he’s fine,” he concluded.
The episode reinforces the challenges faced by drivers at Suzuka, especially in situations with a large pace difference, where any mistake can result in high-impact accidents in Formula 1.
Read more F1: Antonelli wins after decisive Safety Car in the Japanese GP
