Former Top Gear presenter Chris Harris has made shocking claims about safety concerns he raised to the BBC before his co-host Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff’s crash in 2022. The show is currently on hiatus following the serious injury Flintoff sustained while filming at the show’s test track at Dunsfold.
In an interview with podcaster Joe Rogan, Harris revealed that he had warned the BBC three months prior to the accident that there could be a “serious injury” or even a “fatality” if safety procedures were not improved. Despite an independent investigation in 2023 finding that the show had complied with industry best practice, Harris emphasized the need for rigorous safety measures if Top Gear were to return.
Harris expressed concerns about his co-presenters, Flintoff and Paddy McGuinness, stating that they lacked the experience and qualifications to make critical decisions regarding safety. Discussing Flintoff’s accident, Harris highlighted the importance of wearing a crash helmet and understanding the limitations of the vehicle being driven.
Following the crash, Flintoff sustained serious injuries, including facial injuries, and has since opened up about the anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks he experiences as a result of the accident. Harris, on the other hand, is set to present a new road trip series for the BBC with McGuinness, which is currently in production.
The revelations made by Harris have shed light on the importance of prioritizing safety in high-risk environments like those seen on popular TV shows. As Top Gear fans eagerly await the show’s return, the focus on implementing stringent safety measures remains paramount to prevent any future incidents.
