Top Gear axed after 46 years after Freddie Flintoffs horror crash

Top Gear has been "axed after 46 years" on the air, it has been reported, as the BBC were forced to make a difficult decision over the hugely-popular show's future following Freddie Flintoff's crash last year.

The devastating accident, which nearly led to cricket star and show favourite Freddie, 45, losing his life, saw him airlifted to hospital after suffering severe facial injuries and breaking his ribs.

The smash took place while Freddie, who is said to have undergone a huge "ordeal" both physically and emotionally since the crash, was filming for the programme at Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey, December 2022.

The star was driving an open-topped three-wheel Morgan Super 3 vehicle at 130mph around the track, and the BBC later revealed that filming of the show's new series had been ditched following an investigation into the crash.

Now it has been claimed that production staff had been debating whether the show could return at all ever since, and have finally come to a decision.

A source told The Sun: "Top Gear has been an institution on British telly but the feeling is there is no way it can continue after Freddie’s crash.

"The BBC are aware they very nearly lost a presenter’s life while filming a segment."

The insider went on to say that staff feel it would be "bad taste" to continue making such "dangerous material" as part of Top Gear.

"It's a tough decision but they know deep down it’s the right one as hardcore fans of the show won’t want to see a lightweight version," the source added.

OK! has contacted representatives at Top Gear for comment on the reports.

At the time of the crash, Freddie hadn't been wearing a helmet, and this meant that his face had direct contact with the ground when the car he was driving flipped over.

The TV star then had to wait 45 minutes before a helicopter was able to airlift him to hospital.

The BBC issued an apology to Freddie and fans of the show for putting it on ice back in March.

"BBC Studios have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery.

Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34 of Top Gear at this time," the statement read.

"We understand this will be disappointing for fans, but it is the right thing to do, and we’ll make a judgment about how best to continue later this year.

"This has also impacted the production team, who we continue to support. Finally, there will be a health and safety review of the show, in line with our procedures," the BBC added.

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