On Lap 1 of the Austrian Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli locked up going into Turn 3, resulting in his Mercedes colliding with the Red Bull of Max Verstappen. Both drivers had to retire from the race due to the damage on their cars.
The incident was reviewed by the stewards, and it was stated that Antonelli was “fully at fault” for the collision, and therefore was handed a three-place grid penalty that he will serve at the next race he races in, which will be the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
On the incident, Antonelli said, “When I locked the rear, I lost the car and then I had to first avoid the Racing Bull [of Lawson], but then I just couldn’t stop the car. Unfortunately I hit Max and I just feel very sorry towards the team, and him of course.
“I just apologized straight away. I recognize it’s all on me and I just feel sorry because it ended my race, but I ended his as well.”
When Max Verstappen was asked about the incident, the four time World Champion replied, “Unlucky, I guess. It is what it is. I spoke quickly to Kimi, he came with me to the hospitality.
“I think every driver has made a mistake like that. No one does that on purpose as well so for me, that’s not a big deal.”
Totally deserved 🙏🏻