Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff, the former England cricket captain and television presenter, has opened up about the terrifying car crash he suffered while filming for the BBC motoring show Top Gear in December 2022. The high-speed crash left him with serious facial and rib injuries and forced him into a long and difficult recovery period.
Flintoff revealed he has “vivid” memories of the accident, recalling every detail of the crash that nearly claimed his life. In a newly released trailer for his upcoming documentary titled “Flintoff,” he said, “I remember everything about it, it’s so vivid, this is what I’m left with.”
The crash happened while he was driving a Morgan Super 3 at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey, reaching speeds of 130 mph before the accident occurred.
Following the crash, Flinoff endured a challenging recovery both physically and mentally. He disclosed that for about six to eight months, he did not leave his house except for medical appointments and surgeries. He described battling “crippling anxiety,” flashbacks and nightmares related to the incident.
Flintoff said he had to talk to himself in the mirror several times before being able to leave a room, highlighting the psychological toll the crash took on him.
The former cricketer also expressed frustration over the media speculation that surrounded the crash. He explained that one of the reasons for making the documentary was to address the rumours and “what happened.” He said, “Everyone wants more, you’re just a commodity,” reflecting on the intense press attention he explained during his career and after the crash.”
The documentary “Flintoff,” directed by John Dower and produced by South Shore, will premiere exclusively on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland on April 25, 2025. The 90-minute film offers an intimate look at Flintoff’s life, covering his illustrious cricket career-including his two Ashes wins-his recovery journey, and his return to cricket as a coach for the England Lions and Northern Superchargers.
The film features exclusive footage of the crash and Flintoff’s rehabilitation, as well as interviews with his family, close friends, and colleagues such as Gavin & Stacey creator James Corden and comedian Jack Whitehall. Flintoff’s wife Rachael and former teammates also contribute to the documentary, providing insight into his life and character.
Flintoff described the recovery period as a “reset,” saying, “I’ve always been able to flick a switch… I’ve got to find that switch again. It’s almost like I’m trying to find out what I am now.” Despite the trauma, he has found solace in returning to cricket, which he describes as the place where he feels most at ease during difficult times.
The BBC decided to “rest” Top Gear indefinitely after the incident and reached a financial settlement with Flintoff reportedly worth 9 million euros. Flintoff has since resumed his television work and coaching roles, showing resilience in the face of adversity.