Raikkonen admits Vettel penalty was fair

Kimi Raikkonen has admitted that his team-mate Sebastian Vettel was fairly awarded a penalty for his first lap crash with Valtteri Bottas.

The German drvier got a terrific start but was boxed in by both Mercedes cars, causing him to lock up going into the first corner and run into Bottas, damaging his own front wing and giving the Finn a rear left puncture.

Fortunately, both drivers were able to return to the pits and resume their races, but the damage was done.

Vettel only managed to recover to fifth place, with Bottas only seventh.

One man who gained a lot from the collision was Kimi Raikkonen, who scored his first podium since Azerbaijan and he believes penalties even out over a season.

“I saw quickly what happened but not the part when they touched,” said the Finnish veteran. “Things happen, there are stewards that give the penalties if they feel it’s right.

“Is it fair sometimes? Maybe not but I think it balances out in the long run between all of us. It was unfortunate for both of them but that happens sometimes.”