Sun Sep 15 12:56:28 UTC 2024: ## Ferrari and Red Bull Trade Blame After Sainz and Perez Crash Out of Azerbaijan GP
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix ended in dramatic fashion with a late-race collision between Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Red Bull’s Sergio Perez, both drivers crashing out of the race while battling for third place.
The incident occurred on the penultimate lap as the pair exited Turn 2, with both cars making contact and hitting the barriers. The stewards deemed the incident a “racing incident,” finding neither driver predominantly at fault.
However, the teams were far from satisfied with the decision. Red Bull, with Perez having a strong race, accused Sainz of making an abrupt move to the left, triggering the collision. Team Principal Christian Horner called the incident “very disappointing,” emphasizing the potential podium finish Perez had been denied.
Ferrari, on the other hand, defended Sainz, arguing Perez had ample space to the left and placed the blame squarely on the Red Bull driver. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur even suggested a potential grid penalty for Perez, echoing Horner’s call for action against Sainz.
Perez himself admitted frustration with the outcome, recognizing the missed opportunity for both drivers and their teams. He acknowledged Sainz’s attempt to gain an advantage but felt the maneuver was overly aggressive, ultimately costing them both the race.
The collision, which brought out a virtual safety car for the remainder of the race, had significant implications for the championship standings. Red Bull lost valuable points in the constructors’ championship, while Perez’s strong performance in Baku was ultimately wasted.
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between the two top teams, leaving a bitter taste in the mouth of both Red Bull and Ferrari as the championship battle continues.
First Piper 