Martin Donnelly finally drives a Formula 1 car in Adelaide

Northern Ireland's Martin Donnelly’s career was cut short by a horrific accident at the 1990 Spanish Grand Prix, meaning he never drove a Formula 1 car in Adelaide. Thirty-six years on and Donnelly accomplished that feat by driving an Arrows A10B at 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival.

Donnelly got behind the wheel of the Arrows in the practice sessions for the 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival, marking the first time he has driven a Formula 1 car in Adelaide.

Donnelly made his Formula 1 debut in an Arrows A11in 1989 before moving to Team Lotus in 1990. His Lotus hit the wall at an estimated speed of 260 km/h in practice for the Spanish Grand Prix, splitting the car in two and ejecting Donnelly from the wreckage. He suffered brain and lung contusions and severe leg fractures, bringing a premature end to his Formula 1 career. The accident inspired the backstory of Brad Pitt’s character Sonny Hayes in the ‘F1’ movie, with footage of his crash featuring as a key plot point for the film.

He joins fellow former Formula 1 drivers at the event that includes Mika Häkkinen, David Coulthard, Thierry Boutsen, Stefan Johansson, Andrea Montermini and David Brabham.

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets to the 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival (February 28 to March 1).

CLICK HERE for the on-track schedule.