Sebastian Vettel believes he could have challenged Pierre Gasly for fifth at Formula 1’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix without his mistake.
Vettel went off into the Turn 3 escape road in his attempt to pass Esteban Ocon and lost time as well as a position to Yuki Tsunoda.
Tsunoda’s DRS problem later promoted Vettel into sixth spot and he ultimately classified seven seconds behind fifth-placed Gasly.
Vettel’s result – his and Aston Martin’s best in 2022 – lifted the team level on points with Haas in the Constructors’ Championship.
“Sixth position is really great – I think we can all be pleased with that result,” said Vettel.
“We have been pushing the limits of this car, and it is starting to pay off for us now. We were faster than Alfa Romeo and matched Alpine and Alpha Tauri, and that changes the game for us a little bit.
“The team did an amazing pit-stop, which enabled me to jump Lewis [Hamilton]. After that, I was sure I had got past Esteban, but I thought he would battle more for the position, so I took to the escape road and lost some time.
“Without that incident, I think I could have battled for fifth position. Nevertheless, this is a great result.”
Vettel’s team-mate Lance Stroll was forced to retire from a non-points paying position late on due to worsening vibrations.
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