Kobayashi lands 25k penalty

Japanese driver Kamui Kobayashi was fined €25,000 after knocking over three of his Sauber mechanics when he drove too fast into the pits at the British Formula One Grand Prix.

Fortunately, the three mechanics suffered only minor injuries but race stewards took a dim view of the incident.

“It was a very dangerous manoeuvre which had potentially serious implications,” they said in their ruling.

Kobayashi swiftly apologised for the accident. He said: “Of course I had to push hard for points, but without doubt I braked too late in the pit lane. The front wheels locked, I couldn’t control the car, and this is how I overshot the pit box. I am terribly sorry this happened, and I hope the three mechanics I hit get well soon.”

Two of the mechanics needed treatment at the circuit’s medical centre, one for an injured thumb and the other for cuts and bruises. The third suffered a bruised foot and was treated in the team’s garage.

Kobayashi finished out of the points in 11th place, while Mexican team mate Sergio Perez had to retire after clashing with Williams’ driver Pastor Maldonado who was fined €10,000 for that incident.