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Ferrari’s nightmare begin to the 2020 Formula One season continued on Sunday when Charles Leclerc collided with Sebastian Vettel on the opening lap of the Styrian Grand Prix. The Monegasque tried to push previous his team-mate on the within of Turn Three, however rode the kerbs and as a substitute launched his car into the rear of Vettel’s machine. The affect severely broken the rear of the four-time champion’s automotive, tearing off the rear wing and forcing him to pit and retire after a Safety Car had been deployed.
Leclerc pitted for repairs and continued, however he additionally pulled out as soon as the motion resumed – leading to each males being out of the race earlier than the beginning of the sixth lap.
“I am sorry and I apologise to Seb and I know it is not enough at times like this,” he instructed broadcaster Sky Sports.
“I hope I learn and come back stronger next race – it is a tough time for the team and they don’t need that – I put all thoughts of the team in a bin and I am sorry.
“I used to be too optimistic this transfer,” he added.
Leclerc had started from 14th on the grid following a three-place penalty for an incident involving Daniil Kvyat’s Alpha Tauri in Saturday’s rain-swept qualifying.
Vettel started from 10th and was ahead on the opening lap when Leclerc launched his attack, an ill-judged move that ruined the race for both men.
Four-time champion Vettel is in his final season with Ferrari after being told he is surplus to requirements next season and has made clear he was surprised and upset by the decision.
Both drivers have complained their SF1000 car this year is difficult to drive and lacks competitive pace.
The team brought a package of upgrades to the second race of the season, following last week’s disappointing showing, but team boss Mattia Binotto admitted on Saturday they had not been effective.
Leclerc finished a fortunate second at the season-opening Austrian contest when many of his rivals were penalised or retired, only 11 of the 20 starters finishing the race.
“There was nothing I might do,” stated Vettel.
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“There was not sufficient area on the monitor and that’s the reason we collided.
“The car had felt a lot better, but we don’t know do we? We don’t have the answers”
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