Ricciardo didn't have "clear thoughts" for a few seconds

Azerbaijan definitely does not succeed in Daniel Ricciardo. Eliminated in the famous clash with Max Verstappen in 2018, the Australian, now moved to Renault F1 Team, was involved this Sunday in a fight with Daniil Kvyat (Toro Rosso), with the particular outcome.

At the third turn, both drivers exit into the loophole. While wanting to leave, Daniel Ricciardo shifts into reverse... and hits the car of the Russian pilot. Both rivals retire, missing an opportunity to score points for Renault and Toro Rosso.

“It was a strange incident that caused me to retire, but it was a mistake on my part and I'm sorry for the team and Daniil, Ricciardo apologizes. I didn't have a clear head for a few seconds in the urgency of the moment, so I plead guilty.

The team certainly deserved better today. We had a good pace, especially in the mediums. The points were within our reach if we had been able to continue. » Ricciardo will be penalized three grid places in Barcelona for the incident.

Nico Hulkenberg was unable to make up for his teammate's mistake, only finishing 14th under the checkered flag. “I had no answers or anything to offer today, blurted the German. I was pushing hard and I felt like I was driving my best, but I couldn't get the most out of the car.

We have a lot of things to study, but maybe it's one of those mysterious weekends that can't be explained... It was complicated from the first round on Friday and we were always in trouble. It's bitter for the team and me, but we are moving forward and we will prepare as best we can for the next meeting. »

Discover the full report and analysis of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, produced by our special correspondents in Baku, in AUTO issue 2214hebdo, available tomorrow evening in digital version, and from this Wednesday on newsstands.