Former England cricket star Andrew Flintoff has shared details about the terrifying car crash he endured while filming the TV show 'Top Gear' in December 2022. The accident resulted in facial injuries and broken ribs for the all-rounder.
Andrew Flintoff opens up about horrific car crash
Reports suggest that Flintoff was driving a Morgan Super 2 vehicle when it overturned on the first bend of the 'Top Gear' test track. The incident occurred while he was not wearing a helmet. Flintoff has revealed the lasting impact of the horrific car crash he suffered while filming 'Top Gear'. In a candid admission, the 46-year-old shared his ongoing struggles with anxiety and recurring nightmares stemming from the accident.
“I genuinely should not be here after what happened. I don’t want to sit and feel sorry for myself. I don’t want sympathy. I’m struggling with my anxiety, I have nightmares, I have flashbacks – it’s been so hard to cope," Flintoff said.
"But I’m thinking if I don’t do something, I’ll never go. I’ve got to get on with it. I am struggling already and I need help. I really am. I’m not the best at asking for it. I need to stop crying every two minutes,” he added.
Flintoff expressed his determination to focus on the positive aspects of his life following the traumatic experience. While recounting the harrowing details of the car crash, he became visibly emotional.
“I’ve got to look at the positives, I’ve got another chance, and I’m going to go at it. I’m seeing that as how it is – a second go. But you see that, and it pales into insignificance in comparison," former England's star all-rounder stated.
"You come to a place like this and you see all these kids, it’s inspiring, because all of them have had hardship in their lives. It’s bizarre, I’m getting quite emotional as I’m speaking…I’m going to have to put my sunglasses on!” Flintoff added.
Andrew Flintoff's Recovery and Return to Cricket
Following the devastating car crash, Andrew Flintoff withdrew from public life to focus on his recovery. The BBC, in response to the incident, suspended the 'Top Gear' show indefinitely. The broadcasting company also issued a formal apology to Flintoff and reached a substantial financial settlement of £9 million.
Regarded as one of England's greatest all-rounders, Flintoff was renowned for his exceptional abilities with both bat and ball. His capacity to contribute significantly as a top-order batsman and a fast bowler made him a formidable force in the cricketing world.
Currently, Flintoff is the head coach of the Northern Superchargers in the Hundred tournament and expresses a strong desire to maintain his involvement in the sport.
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