CNN  — 

Formula One driver Max Verstappen says it was a “big relief” to see Romain Grosjean jump out of his car after a horrific crash at the Bahrain GP on Sunday.

The incident occurred on the third corner of the first lap as Grosjean plowed into the barriers following contact with Daniil Kvyat.

The Frenchman said he “saw death coming” after the car split in half and was instantly engulfed in flames.

Dramatic live footage showed Grosjean jump out from the burning wreckage after what he says was 28 seconds.

“It was a big relief to see Romain jumping out of the car. You can really see the safety of Formula One cars. It was incredible that he basically jumped out of the car like that,” Verstappen told CNN Sport.

Stewards and medics attend to Romain Grosjean after the crash.

“At the time, when we were driving back to the pits, I could see the flames which were very scary.

“I was asking on the radio, ‘Is he out? Is he out?’ Then we saw the footage that he did jump out and that’s the most important thing.

“Then you just have to wait for the injury report but luckily it wasn’t too bad.”

READ: Hamilton to miss Sakhir Grand Prix after testing positive for coronavirus

Grosjean was rushed immediately to hospital where he was treated for minor burns on the back of his hands.

He was discharged from the Bahrain Defence Hospital (BDH) on Wednesday and will remain in the country to receive private treatment for his burns.

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Published 6:50 AM EST, Fri December 4, 2020
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BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN - NOVEMBER 29: A fire is pictured following the crash of Romain Grosjean of France and Haas F1 during the F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit on November 29, 2020 in Bahrain, Bahrain. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
Romain Grosjean: Former sceptic praises halo after surviving horror crash
01:35 - Source: CNN

Verstappen says all drivers on the grid are fully aware of the risks involved in the sport and was determined to get back on the track to compete in Bahrain.

After a lengthy break, the race restarted and Verstappen eventually finished second behind Lewis Hamilton.

The Red Bull driver currently sits third in the driver standings having won one race this season.