F1 | Red Bull, Verstappen on Leclerc: “There was no need to risk so much”

Max Verstappen's race at Suzuka lasted just two corners: the Dutch driver was rear-ended by Leclerc, and after 15 laps of agony at the back of the group he was forced to retire due to too much damage suffered in contact with the Monegasque from Ferrari. The start was very good for the #33, but the accident compromised his Sunday and perhaps his chance of fighting for the podium.

“I had a good start, maybe I was third – said Verstappen. I stayed on the outside of turn 2, but Charles threw himself towards me: he wanted to recover after a bad start, but the race is long, so it wasn't necessary to risk so much. We were both damaged, but he continued after the pit stop, while my car was in very bad shape, and I had to retire. I couldn't have done it differently: it's very frustrating because I think we could have gone on the podium, it would have been fantastic for the Honda fans. We are improving and the gap is closing, but there will be a lot of work to do in view of Mexico."