Esteban Ocon disclosed the alarming physical consequences he faced following his collision during the 2022 Miami Grand Prix in the third practice session. The Haas F1 driver shared this extraordinary detail while discussing his experience with the Esteban Ocon Miami Grand Prix crash, highlighting the severity of the incident that occurred at the Miami Autodrome.
After moving to Haas in early 2023, Ocon, known for his aggressive driving and consistency in the midfield, has been instrumental in boosting the American team‘s performance throughout the 2025 season. The French driver’s departure from Alpine after the Qatar Grand Prix last year marked a new chapter in his career, but the Miami crash remains one of the most harrowing moments he has encountered on track.
Details of Ocon’s Miami Crash and Its Immediate Impact
During the 2022 Miami Grand Prix, Ocon lost control of his car in a slow corner section and collided with a wall lacking adequate protective barriers. This incident mirrored a similar crash experienced a day earlier by Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz at nearly the same spot. The impact was extreme, registering a force of 51G, which caused Ocon notable physical distress.
In a candid session recorded by Wired, where F1 drivers answered popular questions, Ocon recounted the aftermath of the crash, stating:
“The Miami One, that hurt. I peed red the following day” (4:18)
This striking admission underscored the intense physical trauma sustained in the crash, indicating potential internal injury due to the severe forces involved.
Ocon’s Frustration Over Safety Concerns Following the Incident
Reflecting on the crash, Esteban Ocon expressed strong dissatisfaction with the safety conditions at the Miami circuit and the lack of adequate response from race officials, emphasizing how the impact should not have been so dangerous at that particular track section.
He specifically criticized the failure to address the issue despite complaints from fellow driver Carlos Sainz. According to an Autosport report, Ocon said:
“What is unacceptable really, it was 51G for what should have been not such a big impact. To not have it and [for only] one car it has happened, but when Carlos has complained to the race director, we were all there listening to it, and nothing has been done. There was a discussion last night. Carlos said the impact was way too big for what it should have been. Today it felt huge, the impact. It’s probably the biggest shunt of my career, to be fair.”
He further implored the FIA to prioritize driver safety more aggressively, saying:
“Yesterday Carlos got hurt. I got hurt today as well. The FIA should push harder for our safety. The important thing is that we’re able to race, and I will be able to race as well. When a professional driver to the calibre of Carlos, racing for Ferrari, is saying something like this yesterday, I think the minimum is that it should be taken into consideration, and do the best possible to make a change,”
Aftermath and Race Performance Despite Injuries
Despite suffering painful injuries in their respective accidents, both Ocon and Sainz managed to compete in the main race at the Miami Grand Prix. Demonstrating remarkable determination, Ocon finished in eighth position for Haas, while Sainz secured a strong third place for Ferrari. Their resilience highlighted their professionalism and commitment even under physically challenging circumstances.
The serious nature of Ocon’s Miami crash and his call for improved safety standards emphasize ongoing concerns about the protection of drivers on modern circuits. As Formula 1 continues to push the limits of car performance, the FIA’s response to these incidents is crucial in preventing similar severe impacts in the future and ensuring the well-being of all competitors.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened with Esteban Ocon?
A. After the Qatar Grand Prix, he exited Alpine and joined Haas for 2025, partnering with Oliver Bearman. By the 2025 British Grand Prix, Ocon has secured one race victory, one fastest lap, and four podium finishes in Formula One. His contract with Haas extends until the end of the 2026 season.
Q. Was Esteban Ocon rich?
A. Esteban Ocon is a French Formula 1 driver with earnings of $21 million (£15.8m). He first raced in 2016 with Manor Racing, later called Marussia. Throughout his career, he has competed with various teams and now drives for Haas.