Formula One: Romain Grosjean returns to paddock, meets his rescuers after fireball crash

Grosjean (centre) poses with doctor Ian Roberts (right) and medical car driver Alan van der Merwe (left). PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Grosjean (left) presents a gift to officials as he visits the track to thank track marshals and medical staff. PHOTO: EPA-EFE

MANAMA (AFP) - Romain Grosjean returned to the Formula One paddock and met his rescuers on Thursday (Dec 3) just four days after his dramatic escape from a fireball crash during last Sunday's Bahrain Grand Prix.

The French driver, whose Haas car split in half and burst into flames when he crashed on the opening lap, and his wife Marion were greeted warmly by the American team.

They met medical car driver Alan van der Merwe and the sport's senior medial official Dr Alan Roberts who were at the scene of his crash and helped Grosjean escape from the blaze.

Grosjean is not taking part in this weekend's Sakhir Grand Prix and was resting and healing at a hotel where his wife joined him following his release from hospital on Wednesday.

He arrived with bandages on both of his hands and his left foot for what appeared to be several emotional reunions with team members including his race engineer Dominic Haines.

Grosjean also met firefighters Joby Mathew and Thaer Ali Taher, both of whom were involved in his rescue.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.