Grosjean apologizes after Spa crash

After being held responsible for the pileup that occurred at the start of the Belgian GP, Romain Grosjean admitted his mistake and accepts the sanction of the stewards who ban him from racing at Monza next week. The 2011 GP2 Series champion is obviously disappointed by his exclusion but is still relieved that no one was injured following the accident. The Frenchman claims not to have seen Lewis Hamilton at the moment when he fell back on the Briton before flying into the peloton. Lotus F1 Team indicated that it would not appeal the decision. Jérôme d'Ambrosio could replace Romain Grosjean next week.

“When your life is based around racing, not being allowed to participate in an event is probably one of the worst experiences.”, comments Romain Grosjean, who has five retirements since the start of the season. “I respect the commissioners’ decision. I got off to a good start even though I was hampered by the early departure of Pastor (Maldonado), which must have been the case for everyone, before the rear wheel of my car hit the front wheel of Lewis (Hamilton). I really thought I was in front of him and that there was enough space for two cars. I didn't deliberately want to close the door on him. The situation at the first corner was not desirable for anyone and fortunately no one was injured. I would like to apologize to the drivers involved in the accident and their supporters. I can only add that this day is part of the process of me becoming a better driver. »

Discover the analysis of the Belgian Grand Prix in the next issue of AUTOhebdo, available from Tuesday in digital version for iPad, PC and Mac, and from Wednesday on newsstands.