This archive report was first published on 18 November 2019.
On November 17, 2019, six-time world champion Lewis Hamilton apologized to Alexander Albon for a collision that cost the Red Bull rookie a first Formula One podium at the Interlagos circuit in Brazil.
Hamilton, who had clinched his latest title in Texas two weeks prior, was handed a five-second penalty for the incident, which occurred on the penultimate lap.
"I fully accept the responsibility. I fully accept I was coming from behind so I’m the one that touched him, not the other way round," Hamilton said.
Hamilton was demoted to seventh place, while Albon ended up 14th. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said, "His time will come."
Albon stated that Hamilton, on fresher tyres, would probably have gotten past anyway further down the road but third would have been his.
Max Verstappen won the race for Red Bull, his third victory of the season and first from pole. Pierre Gasly finished second for Toro Rosso.
Hamilton acknowledged that Red Bull and their Honda engine partners were too quick, saying, "Max did a fantastic job today. They just outclassed us in terms of overall performance."
