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Sebastian Vettel apologises for 'dangerous overreaction' in Baku

Sebastian Vettel has admitted he "overreacted" and put Lewis Hamilton in a "dangerous situation" by swerving into his title rival behind the safety car during Formula 1's Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

The four-time champion has issued a public apology over the incident in Baku last month.

It came shortly after Monday's announcement from the FIA that the governing body would not take further action against Vettel for the collision with Hamilton.

The Ferrari driver apologised to the FIA in private earlier in the day then issued a statement in the evening that marked the first time he admitted to any wrongdoing.

Vettel's stance immediately following the incident was that Hamilton should have been penalised for brake testing him, but he said his opinion had changed after Monday's detailed review with the FIA.

"During the restart lap, I got surprised by Lewis and ran into the back of his car," wrote Vettel in a message to fans published on his website.

"With hindsight, I don't believe he had any bad intentions.

"In the heat of the action I then overreacted, and therefore I want to apologise to Lewis directly, as well as to all the people who were watching the race. I realise that I was not setting a good example.

"I had no intention at any time to put Lewis in danger, but I understand that I caused a dangerous situation.

"Therefore, I would like to apologise to the FIA. I accept and respect the decisions that were taken at today's meeting in Paris, as well as the penalty imposed by the Stewards in Baku.

"I love this sport and I am determined to represent it in a way that can be an example for future generations."

Vettel has agreed to volunteer to help educate young racing drivers at events this year, with the FIA warning him that any repeat of what happened in Baku will prompt an International Tribunal hearing.

He will not be used by the FIA to endorse its road safety initiatives.

The German still has nine disciplinary points on his licence, which means any incident that results in him getting three more points added at this weekend's Austrian GP will result in a race ban for the British GP.

Zdroj: autosport.com