Leclerc: "I made a mistake"
F1 News
Charles Leclerc has admitted that he was at fault for the first lap clash with the Aston Martin Red Bull Racing of Max Verstappen that spoilt both of their races, with Verstappen forced to retire and Leclerc only managing to collect P7 after a post race penalty. Leclerc understeered at turn two on the first lap, forcing his rival into a half spin and damaging Verstappen's sidepod.
The Ferrari also suffered damage in the crash, with bits of Leclerc's front wing falling off during the opening laps, before he eventually pitted for repairs.
After the race, the Monegasque driver was given a five second penalty for the incident and a ten second penalty for the team ignoring FIA orders to bring the car in at the end of lap one.
Leclerc admitted his error, and said: “It was a tough race. I made a mistake at the start and made contact with Max (Verstappen) in turn 1, which unfortunately compromised both our races and my front wing was damaged.
"I tried to make the best of it going forward. After the first stop, when my front wing was changed, I gave it my all. I tried to make up as many positions as possible. Although it was quite fun to overtake other cars and fight my way up the field, P6 (later changed to P7) is not our target or a result we are satisfied with.
"It was a different weekend overall, and I look forward to the opportunity of bringing home better results once again at the upcoming races.”