Red Bull Racing’s Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen crashed out in spectacular fashion at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, costing the team valuable championship points.
Throughout the race, the duo engaged in a series of epic battles as Ricciardo attempted to overtake Verstappen. The Australian eventually got the move done but after the duo pitted shortly after, it was Verstappen who emerged in front.
Eager to get back ahead of the Flying Dutchman, Ricciardo locked Verstappen in his sights and went for an overtake heading into the first corner. However, Verstappen moved under braking and Ricciardo was left with nowhere to go but straight into the rear of his teammate’s Red Bull, resulting in a double retirement.
Upon investigating the crash, the FIA put equal blame on both of the drivers. They determined that Verstappen moved more than once to protect his position while Ricciardo admitted that he left his move too late.
The incident is reminiscent of an infamous collision between former Red Bull teammates Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel at the Turkish Grand Prix in 2010.
The crash also perfectly demonstrates the highs and lows of the sport. Two weeks ago, Ricciardo was celebrating a remarkable victory at the Chinese Grand Prix and reportedly in talks with Ferrari over a potential contract.
The long-term ramifications of the crash remain to be seen but Red Bull says it will make Ricciardo and Verstappen apologize to the entire squad at its headquarters in the UK.