Formula 1 is known for thrilling races and incredible speed, but sometimes the crashes can be just as unforgettable, especially when the G-forces involved are off the charts. Drivers experience extreme forces that test the limits of both man and machine. Let’s take a look at the top 4 worst Formula 1 crashes based on the G-forces drivers endured. These moments remind us how dangerous the sport can be, and how tough these athletes really are.
Top 4 Worst Formula 1 Crashes Based On G-Forces Experienced
Rubens Barrichello (95G)
Starting off the worst Formula 1 crashes, we have Rubens Barrichello’s wild crash during qualifying for the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Barrichello’s Jordan hit a kerb sharply and was instantly thrown airborne, smashing into a tyre wall at high speed. He was knocked unconscious from the impact, but incredibly, Rubens only walked away with a sprained wrist and a broken nose. Despite the terrifying forces he faced, he was back on track as soon as he recovered. That kind of resilience is the stuff legends are made of.
Luciano Burti (111G)
Next up on the list of worst Formula 1 crashes is Luciano Burti, who crashed horribly during the rain-soaked 2001 Belgian Grand Prix. It all started when Burti tried to overtake Eddie Irvine, who unexpectedly turned into him. Burti’s Jaguar was spun around, losing its front wing. Without downforce and grip, the car smashed straight into a tyre wall at a heart-stopping 290 km/h. Burti was out for the rest of the season with a concussion and bruises on his face, but he made it through one of the most brutal impacts in F1 history.
David Purley (179.8G)
Now, let’s go way back to 1977. David Purley experienced what was, at the time, the highest G-force ever survived by a human. During practice for the British Grand Prix, his throttle stuck open and the car crashed head-first into a wall. The impact registered at a staggering 179.8 Gs. Against all odds, Purley survived and fought hard to recover. He even returned to racing after his injuries, a true example of bravery and determination that stands the test of time, but indeed one of the worst Formula 1 crashes.
Jules Bianchi (254G)
At the very top of the worst Formula 1 crashes is Jules Bianchi’s tragic accident at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix. Bianchi lost control at the same corner where Adrian Sutil had previously crashed and collided with the rear of a tractor crane, removing Sutil’s car. The impact was measured at an unbelievable 254 Gs, absolutely devastating. Bianchi was placed in a medically induced coma and, sadly, passed away in 2015 due to his injuries. His crash was a heartbreaking reminder of the risks drivers face every time they get behind the wheel.
Also read: Remembering Jules Bianchi: The F1 Talent Gone Too Soon
