Crash Controversy: Sainz and Perez Exonerated in Baku Clash

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix witnessed a dramatic clash between Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez, as the two drivers fought for the final podium position. Despite the incident resulting in both cars hitting the barriers, the stewards ultimately ruled the crash a "racing incident" and exonerated both drivers from any wrongdoing.

Thrilling Battle for the Podium Ends in Heartbreak

The Intense Duel for Third Place

The closing stages of the Baku race were marked by a fierce battle between Sainz and Perez for the final spot on the podium. With Perez having regained his form and chasing down the leading duo of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc, the Red Bull driver was determined to secure a strong result. Meanwhile, Sainz, who had been struggling for form, saw an opportunity to capitalize on Leclerc's fading pace and make a move for the final podium position.As the two drivers approached the penultimate lap, the tension reached a boiling point. Sainz, eager to overtake Perez, made his move coming out of Turn 2, leading to a collision that sent both cars crashing into the barriers and bringing out a virtual safety car for the remainder of the race.

Stewards' Ruling: A "Racing Incident"

After reviewing the incident, the stewards determined that neither Sainz nor Perez was predominantly at fault, labeling the crash a "racing incident." The decision was based on their examination of the data and driving lines from previous laps, as well as discussions with both drivers.Sainz defended his position, stating that he had not made any "strange maneuver" and that he was simply following his normal racing line. However, Red Bull's Helmut Marko strongly disagreed, accusing Sainz of making an "abrupt move to the left" that triggered the collision.Perez, on the other hand, expressed his frustration over the incident, acknowledging that it had cost his team valuable championship points. He believed that there was ample space for both drivers to navigate the turn, but the sudden contact resulted in the premature end to their races.

Implications and Reactions

The crash had significant implications for both teams and the championship standings. With Perez and Sainz failing to score points, it allowed McLaren to overtake Red Bull in the constructors' championship, further complicating the battle at the top.Red Bull team principal Christian Horner called for the stewards to take action, but Ferrari's Fred Vasseur responded by suggesting that Perez should also face a grid penalty if such a decision was made. The differing perspectives from the team bosses highlighted the intensity of the rivalry and the high stakes involved in the championship fight.Despite the disappointment, both Sainz and Perez remained measured in their post-race comments, acknowledging the frustration of the incident while also recognizing the positive aspects of their respective performances. Sainz's pace had shown signs of improvement, while Perez's return to form had put him in a strong position to challenge for the podium before the crash.As the Formula 1 circus moves on to the next race in Singapore, the Sainz-Perez incident will undoubtedly be a talking point, with both drivers and teams eager to put the disappointment behind them and focus on the challenges that lie ahead.