FIA confirms further probe into Vettel-Hamilton Baku clash

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F1's governing body has confirmed that it will conduct a further investigation into Sebastian Vettel's behavior in last Sunday's Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

A spokesman for the FIA said on Wednesday that evidence of the incident which involved Vettel and Lewis Hamilton just before the second re-start of the race under the Safety Car would be examined.

Subsequently, a decision regarding whether Vettel's conduct warrants additional sanctions against the Ferrari driver shall be taken before next week's Austrian Grand Prix.

The FIA issued the following statement:

"Following the recent incident at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in which Car 5 (Sebastian Vettel) was involved in a collision with Car 44 (Lewis Hamilton), on Monday 3rd July, the FIA will further examine the causes on the incident in order to evaluate whether further action is necessary.

"A statement regarding the outcome of this process will be made available before the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix."

Next Monday, July 3, is Sebastian Vettel's 30th birthday by the way. It could be a good or sour day for the German...

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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.