Fred Vasseur, Ferrari‘s Formula 1 team principal, commended Mercedes rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli for handling the aftermath of his crash with Charles Leclerc during the Dutch Grand Prix. The collision, which took place at Zandvoort’s Turn 3, abruptly ended Leclerc’s race and raised tensions between drivers.
Details of the Collision and Penalty Imposed
On lap 53, Antonelli attempted an ambitious overtaking maneuver on the Monegasque driver by diving inside at the banked corner. However, he understeered and made contact with Leclerc’s car, causing Leclerc to spin into the barriers. As a result of this incident, Antonelli received a 10-second time penalty.
Antonelli’s Explanation and Apology After the Race
Following the race, Antonelli expressed regret over the incident, explaining his motivation and decision-making in the high-pressure moment. He described how difficult overtaking was at Zandvoort and said the opportunity appeared to be his best chance to pass.
“I just saw it and it’s a shame because the pace was good, we were coming back in front. I knew that was probably the best chance I had to make the move because I was very close to him, he had a colder tyre,”
Antonelli said.
“I just tried to move, but it was a bit too much. When I saw he was coming back in front, I tried to let it go but it was not enough.”
He added that experience would influence his approach in the future:
“Now I’m just relooking at it. I just tried at some point to let it go but it was not enough. Obviously I feel sorry to him. Next time I’ll probably think twice before making the move. Unless I’m 100% sure I’m going to stick it.”
Fred Vasseur Acknowledges the Incident as Part of Racing
Vasseur acknowledged Antonelli’s apology since Leclerc was not available to speak with. He regarded the penalty as fair and classified the event as a typical racing incident, knowing the inherent risks of competing at a track where overtakes are challenging.
“Yes, he came and apologised to me as Charles wasn’t there,”
Vasseur explained.
“I appreciate this – it can happen. It’s not easy to overtake in Zandvoort; you must take risks. He took a risk, made a mistake, and apologised. That’s the right reaction. For me, it was a racing incident.”
Looking Forward to the Italian Grand Prix at Monza
Ferrari’s focus now shifts away from the disappointment of a double retirement at the Dutch Grand Prix as they prepare for their home race at Monza. The Italian Grand Prix, scheduled for early September, offers the team a chance for redemption and a return to strong performance on familiar ground.
