Ocon Recalls Horrific 42G Miami GP Crash: 'I Was Peeing Red'

Esteban Ocon has revealed the harrowing details of a 42G impact he suffered at the Miami Grand Prix during the 2022 season, describing how he could barely walk and later collapsed, even "peeing red." This stark recollection highlights the brutal physical toll F1 crashes can take, even those that don't appear outwardly catastrophic.

Why it matters:

F1 drivers push their bodies to extreme limits, and Ocon's account offers a visceral look into the hidden dangers they face beyond the immediate visual spectacle of a crash. His story underscores the critical importance of driver safety and the incredible resilience required to compete at the pinnacle of motorsport, even when severely injured.

The Details:

• The Incident: Ocon recalled hitting a concrete wall in third practice at the inaugural Miami Grand Prix in 2022 while driving for Alpine. He experienced a 42G impact, a force that, while not visually dramatic, caused significant internal trauma.
• Immediate Aftermath: Ocon stated, "I hit both my knees and could barely walk afterwards." This immediate physical impairment was a clear indicator of the severity of the impact.
• Delayed Symptoms: The full extent of his injuries became apparent the following morning. "I remember, the next morning I was in the shower and I collapsed. I lost my balance and fell, I was not well at all," Ocon revealed. This suggests concussion or other internal issues that weren't immediately obvious.
• Disturbing Symptom: Most alarmingly, Ocon admitted, "I was peeing red, that was not great!" This symptom points to severe internal organ damage, likely rhabdomyolysis, a condition where damaged muscle tissue releases proteins and electrolytes into the blood.
• Remarkable Recovery & Performance: Despite his severe condition, Ocon managed to start from the back of the grid and finish eighth in that race, a testament to his determination and the adrenaline of competition.
• Track Concerns: The specific section of the Miami circuit where Ocon crashed has been a point of concern, with Carlos Sainz also hitting the barrier there in 2022, damaging his Ferrari.

The Big Picture:

Ocon's candid account serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden risks in Formula 1. While safety standards have vastly improved over decades, the forces involved in even seemingly minor incidents can have profound effects on the drivers' bodies. This sheds light on why drivers are so vocal about track design and safety features, especially concerning unforgiving concrete walls.

What's next:

Now driving for Haas alongside rookie Oliver Bearman, Ocon continues to compete in F1. His experience in Miami, however, underscores the constant physical demands and dangers, especially as the sport pushes for more sprint races. Ocon himself has expressed reservations about increasing the number of Sprints on the F1 calendar, a stance likely informed by his own harrowing experiences with the physical toll of racing.