Top Gear to return four years after Andrew Flintoff’s near-fatal car crash

After a three-year hiatus, BBC's long-running motoring-themed reality television show Top Gear is set to return for its 34th season. The show's director of entertainment, Ed Havard, confirmed the news at the Edinburgh TV Festival. However, specific details regarding the timeline and hosts of the new season have not been disclosed.

Speculation has arisen about the show's return, with reports suggesting comedian Jimmy Carr and former rugby player Joe Marler may co-host the new season. Top Gear was put on hold in 2023, just months after co-host Andrew Flintoff's near-fatal car crash at the show's test track in Surrey. The former cricketer sustained severe facial injuries in the accident, which occurred when an open-topped Morgan Super 3 flipped and dragged him face-down into the ground.

Flintoff required extensive medical treatment and subsequently reached a £9 million settlement with the BBC. The broadcaster also apologized to the co-host and announced a health and safety review of the show.