Angry Lauda supports FIA Vettel probe

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Mercedes non-executive chairman Niki Lauda says the FIA is right to investigate Sebastian Vettel's during in last Sunday's Azerbaijan GP.

Like many, the F1 legend was dumbfounded by the German driver's maneuver, when he banged wheels with Lewis Hamilton after believing the Mercedes driver has brake-tested him.

But Lauda is even more incensed by Vettel's inability to own up to his mistake, and agrees with the FIA's decision to further probe the matter, believing the penalty given by the stewards in Azerbaijan was "a joke".

FIA confirms further probe into Vettel-Hamilton Baku clash

"What makes it even worse is that Vettel took absolutely no blame -- although that is always so with him," he said.

"I can understand Lewis' anger and I'm really angry as well. Why couldn't he just say 'It was my mistake, I screwed up'?"

The FIA confirmed yesterday that it will "further examine the causes of the incident in order to evaluate whether further action is necessary".

A meeting will take place on Monday, July 3, which also happens to be Sebastian Vettel's birthday!

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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.