F1 News: Grosjean To Test Drive The Mercedes W10

After a near-fatal crash at the Bahrain 2020, it was unclear if Romain Grosjean would drive an F1 car again. However this morning it was announced that the Frenchman would drive one last time in Hamilton's 2019 W10 Mercedes F1 car.

Whilst Grosjean was in hospital to treat his burns, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff offered for him to drive the title-winning car, once it became apparent that he would not get back behind the wheel before the end of the season, where he would lose his Haas seat. Wolff did not want Grosjean's last experience in an F1 car to be such a horrific one.

The test will take place on the 29th of June in France at his home track of Paul Ricard Circuit. Grosjean will also complete a demonstration run two days before at the French Grand Prix. This will allow his fans to give him a proper farewell, COVID-19 restrictions permitting. The driver has already completed a seat fit and simulator session at the Mercedes' factory in Brackley.

When speaking about the opportunity, Grosjean said:

“I am so excited to jump back in an F1 car... It will be a special opportunity for me and to drive a world championship-winning Mercedes will be a unique experience."

Romain Grosjean drove for 9 seasons in Formula 1. He started as Renault's test driver in 2008 but took Piquet's seat during the 2009 season. He then lost his seat and competed in Sportscar races such as the GT1 World Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours, Auto GP and GP2. Between 2012 and 2015 the Frenchman drive for Lotus, having been their test driver for 2011. For the 2012 season, he moved to the newly formed Haas where he drove until his terrifying crash in 2020. In his time, he took 10 podiums. For the 2021 season, he is driving in the IndyCar Series, however, will not be competing in the oval races.

Fans everywhere will agree that driving in a Mercedes in his home country will be a lovely way to end his Formula 1 career.