Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto has defended Sebastian Vettel in the wake of his driver’s costly mistake during Formula 1’s Bahrain Grand Prix.
Vettel, having relinquished the lead to Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc early on, became embroiled in a scrap for second position against perennial title rival Lewis Hamilton.
Hamilton went around the outside of Vettel through Turn 4 and as he completed the move the Ferrari driver spun.
Vettel’s tyres sustained substantial damage and the resultant vibrations led to his front wing breaking loose as he made his way along the back straight.
Vettel ultimately classified fifth on a weekend in which Ferrari held the fastest package.
“It was a mistake and I don’t think we should discuss about mistakes,” said Binotto.
“We are always in the battle and in the fight, that is what we are doing and it is never easy.
“I think at the end it is something that can always happen.
“I think we need to encourage our drivers because it is only by driving to the limit that they achieve the best result and that is what Seb was trying to do.
“There is some homework on the balance to improve, we are still learning about our car.
“So I think all good in that respect and we will keep focus on that and hope to improve.”
Vettel’s recent costly spins
Vettel’s spin marked his fourth in the 10 races that have taken place since he last stood atop the podium at the 2018 Belgian Grand Prix.
On each occasion, Vettel has been on the inside while in close proximity of a rival.
The first spin came at the Italian Grand Prix while battling against Lewis Hamilton on the opening lap, with the Ferrari driver’s car unsettled by the inside kerb at the second chicane.
The next came a few races later in Japan when an opportunistic move on Max Verstappen at Spoon Curve left him facing the wrong way.
Just one race later he spun through the stadium section in the United States while dicing with Daniel Ricciardo.
And, of course, in Bahrain, he spun exiting Turn 4 just moments after being overhauled by Hamilton.
