Alexander Albon has stated he will not change his approach to racing six-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton after the pair clashed for a second time in three grands prix.
Albon attempted to pass the Mercedes driver around the outside of Turn 4 during last weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix as they contested second position, but the pair made contact.
Hamilton was subsequently handed a five-second time penalty for the resulting contact which left the Red Bull driver at the back of the field.
The pair first clashed at last season’s Brazilian Grand Prix as Hamilton attempted to make a pass on the inside of Albon at Bico De Pato with just a handful of laps remaining, but contact ensued which again left Albon at the foot of the field.
When asked if he would be prepared to change the way he would battle Hamilton on track, Albon said: “No, not at all. I think it’s just bad circumstances that we’ve come together twice. But that’s about it.”
He also mentioned there had been no further discussions on the incident between himself and Hamilton.
“We didn’t speak afterwards,” he added. “To be honest there wasn’t too much really to say, I think, it is what it is. I’m sure Lewis didn’t intend to make contact.”
Albon believes he could have been on for a “special” result due to being on a more favourable tyre strategy with fresher Soft tyres against the worn Hard compound tyres of the Mercedes duo.
“I do think we had a chance,” said Albon. “The guys did an amazing job to find the opportunity to put us on the soft tyres and when we came out [of the pits], obviously the two Mercs were on cold tyres after a double Safety Car period, so it was looking good for us.
“I knew we had to do the overtakes early to get the chance to get to Bottas. But I do think we could have done something special.”
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