Vettel denies anger issues, regrets behaviour

40

Sebastian Vettel does not believe he has any issues with his temper, but admits that if he could go back in time he would exert better self-control in the case of the Baku incident.

Vettel's impulse which saw the German bang wheels with Lewis Hamilton cost the Ferrari driver a 10-second stop and go penalty, three penalty points on is licence and reprimand from the FIA.

Vettel regrets his actions but denied having any character issues when asked about the problem in today's drivers media conference in Austria.

"I don't think so," he said. "I can see why you might believe it's not [the case]."

Hamilton won't take back 'disgrace' comment on Vettel

Vettel did not dwell more than necessary on the subject of the incident and his subsequent visit to the FIA, but he did reiterate his apologetic stance.

"What I did was wrong. I made a mistake. I apologised but it doesn't take it away," said the Ferrari driver.

"It was the wrong move, to drive alongside him and hit his tyre.

"Am I proud of it? No. Can I take it back? No. Do I regret it? Yes. I had the impression I was fouled. That was wrong. I wasn't happy, I overreacted."

"If I could go back in time and take it back, I would. But as I can't it is good to say we focus on the weekend and go out and race."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.