Nico Hulkenberg has accepted blame for an opening lap crash during the Belgian Grand Prix which took out several cars.
The Renault driver started at the back after taking an engine penalty, but as the pack approached Turn 1, Hulkenberg locked-up and ploughed into the rear of Fernando Alonso's McLaren, forcing him into the air and over Charles Leclerc's car. All three retired on the spot.
Daniel Ricciardo and Kimi Raikkonen also suffered damage as a result of the crash and although both were able to continue, they later retired as a result of the collision.
Belgian GP: Race result | Drivers' Championship | Constructors' Championship
Hulkenberg confirmed after the race that he didn't have a mechanical issue on his car and was caught out by the lack of downforce.
"No problem [with the car]," he told Sky Sports. "It’s just incredible to find out again on lap one how sensitive these cars are with aerodynamics, when you have a few cars that bunch up in front of you how much grip and load you lose.
"When I hit the brakes, I instantly locked up the front wheels and just [slid] into Fernando. Probably a misjudgement from my side, a bit too late on the brakes, a bit too keen.
"It’s frustrating obviously for him, for Charles as well, but also for myself."
Hulkenberg has been called to report to the stewards office.
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