Seb’s so sorry
SEBASTIAN VETTEL has escaped punishment for deliberately driving into Lewis Hamilton at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Ferrari star also apologised to his title rival after accusing Hamilton of ‘braketesting’ him in Baku as they prepared for a restart behind the safety car.
Vettel (right) said: “During the restart lap, I got surprised by Lewis and ran into the back of his car. With hindsight, I don’t believe he had any bad
intentions. In the heat of the action I then overreacted and therefore I want to apologise to Lewis directly, as well as to all the people who were watching the race. I realise that I was not setting a good example.
“I had no intention to put Lewis in danger, but I understand that I caused a dangerous situation.”
Vettel decided Hamilton had brake-tested him by slowing down deliberately behind the safety car. So he rammed into the back of the Brit’s Mercedes, then drove alongside and banged wheels.
Stewards investigated and cleared Hamilton but hit Vettel with a 10-second stop and go penalty.
But the German still finished one place ahead of Hamilton in fourth, extending his championship lead to 14 points.
Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, summoned Vettel and Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene to their Paris HQ yesterday.
After the hearing the FIA stated: “Following detailed discussion and further examination of video and data evidence related to the incident, Sebastian Vettel admitted full responsibility.
“In light of these developments, FIA President Jean Todt decided that on this occasion the matter should be closed.”
Vettel is still in danger of a ban after he was hit with three points on his F1 licence for the incident, taking his tally to nine.
Three more on Sunday and he will automatically miss the British GP.