Freddie Flintoff speaks out publicly for first time since near-fatal Top Gear crash

Freddie Flintoff has spoken out publicly for first time since his near-fatal Top Gear crash.

The former England cricketer was involved in an accident at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey last December, when filming for the BBC series.

Flintoff was hospitalised after suffering broken ribs and facial injuries and was spotted for the first time in public in September when he visited the England squad for their one-day international series against New Zealand.

He was pictured at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff dressed in full England coaching kit, and even helped with fielding drills before taking his place on the balcony.

The 45-year-old could be seen with tape on his nose, with the aftermath of the crash clearly visible as he continues his recovery.

It was reported that he could make his first TV appearance since the crash this winter for the second season of Field of Dreams on BBC, which follows the ex-England captain's search to find untapped cricketing talent in his hometown of Preston.

Now, for the first time, Flintoff has opened up on his near-fatal crash during a moving speech whilst presenting England player Tom Hartley with his international cap.

In the clip, shared on X, Flintoff paid tribute to the ‘family’ environment around the team, claiming that good teammates will always ‘be there for you in the hardest times of your life’.

Speaking during the presentation, Freddie said: "It gives me so much pleasure to share what's going to be a day Tom that you're going to remember for the rest of your life.

"When you get this cap, this changes your life. It's one of those things, it's before and after it.

“This enables you to walk tall and move faster. Play with passion, play with pride, play with belief. And also part of a family of people.

"They'll share the good times with you, share the successes. But as I found over the past few months, they'll be there for you in the hardest times of your life.

"They will stand next to you. So, like the lion on the cap Tom, be brave, be, fearless, be proud and enjoy every minute."

Well said, Freddie.