Vettel taken by surprise by tyre failure

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Sebastian Vettel saw his championship lead dwindle down to just a single point after a massive anticlimax took hold of Ferrari's fortunes in the closing stages of the British GP.

Vettel was on course for a podium finish and a damage limitation result versus title rival Lewis Hamilton when a front left tyre puncture forced the Ferrari into the pits with two laps to go.

The German driver accepted an unexpected misfortune which also befell team mate Kimi Raikkonen, refusing to impose blame on anyone.

"I don't think there's anyone particularly to blame," Vettel told Sky Sports Natalie Pinkham.

"At the time it felt okay, Kimi had a similar issue and his tyres were at least five of six laps fresher. It caught us both my surprise."

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Despite losing substantial ground in the championship battle, Vettel wouldn't label his afternoon a diaster.

"It could have been better for sure, but disaster I don't think so," he added.

"We had a good car, especially in the corners, the balance was alright. In the race obviously the brakes caught fire at the start, which compromised the start and from there it was a difficult race.

"Didn't get past Max, did it with a pitstop, and then it was looking like P3 or P4 with Valtteri who was always going to come through.

"Small things here and there that led to a busy afternoon."

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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.