Is Vettel heading to the FIA's International Tribunal?

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Sebastian Vettel's 10-second stop-and-go and penalty points may not have been the full extent of the punishment lowered upon the German following his Baku antics.

Germany's Auto, Motor und Sport is reporting that FIA President Jean Todt could be seeking further investigation into Vettel's on-track clash with Lewis Hamilton on Sunday, and perhaps additional disciplinary action.

As a reminder, Vettel's colorful radio tirade during last year's Mexican Grand Prix, when he took personal aim at race director Charlie Whiting, landed the Ferrari driver in hot water but ultimately he received only a warning from the FIA.

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Todt may not feel inclined to show as much leniency this time around however.

Under Article 151C of the International Sporting Code, the governing body could haul Vettel in front of its tribunal, if he is deemed to have brought the sport into disrepute.

It's more likely however that the FIA will ask Vettel to publicly recognize he was at fault last Sunday when he pulled up alongside Lewis Hamilton and rammed the side of the Mercedes.

Vettel is also now just three penalty points away from receiving a proper race ban, a marginal state of affairs which will justify the German keeping his temper in check next week in Austria.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.