FIA lets Sebastian Vettel off the hook

Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel will face no further sanctions from the FIA for his on-track clash with Lewis Hamilton in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

The German was summoned to the FIA and owned up to the mistake which saw him deliberately ram into Hamilton's Mercedes after believing the Brit has brake-tested him while the field was preparing to re-start the race after a Safety Car period.

The sport's governing body said in a statement Vettel had "admitted full responsibility" and "extended his sincere apologies to the FIA and the wider motorsport family.

"In light of these developments, FIA President Jean Todt decided that on this occasion the matter should be closed," it concluded.

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Vettel will however issue a formal public apology and take part in various FIA educational activities.

The four-time world champion was also warned by the FIA that any recurrence of his behaviour will result in an immediate referral to the FIA's International Tribunal for further investigation.

"Top level sport is an intense environment in which tempers can flare," commented FIA President Jean Todt on the outcome of the meeting.

"However, it is the role of top sportsmen to deal with that pressure calmly and to conduct themselves in a manner that not only respects the regulations of the sport but which befits the elevated status they enjoy.

"Sportsmen must be cognisant of the impact their behaviour can have on those who look up to them. They are heroes and role models and to millions of fans worldwide and must conduct themselves accordingly."

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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.