“Not Captain Hindsight” – Vettel Changes His Tone & Defends Masi After Norris Crash Criticism

McLaren driver Lando Norris had a huge crash at the Eau-Rogue corner in Q3 at the Belgian Grand Prix. The conditions in the final part of qualifying had become treacherous and many drivers, including Sebastian Vettel, had suggested to red flag the session.

Vettel was angry at the race director, Michael Masi, and the stewards who did not red flag the session before Norris’s crash. In his post-qualifying interview, the 4-time world champion stated he has spoken with Masi regarding the issue.

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I think it was difficult to judge: Sebastian Vettel

As reported by GPBlog, the Aston Martin driver defended the race director in the post-qualifying interview. He stated Masi is not captain hindsight and did not know that crash was going to happen. Although he mentioned that the racing director would not be too proud of his decision.

“I think Michael is not proud of what happened,” said Vettel.

“He is not captain hindsight. When I went down Eau Rouge and arrived at the top, there was a lot of standing water. There are lots of things we can do. It could have been a different outcome for Lando.” said the 4-time world champion.

 “It’s always difficult to judge, but I think the red flag should have been waved earlier. You can’t see much from the garage, only TV footage. But if you know that the marshals are reporting that there is too much rain and water, then the light shouldn’t go green,” said the Aston Martin driver on the difficulties of rain.

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The Aston Martin driver was pleased with his qualifying performance at Spa

Sebastian Vettel qualified in P5 in very difficult conditions for the Belgian Grand Prix. The German used all his years of experience and skill to put his car in the higher positions. He analyzed his performance and stated that he enjoyed the session.

“It was good fun,” he said. “I enjoyed it, it was very difficult, but overall a long session. Good to be higher up on the grid. Hopefully, we can use that opportunity tomorrow.

I think there was a little bit more, at least one position, maybe a couple more. I went off on the last lap in my fastest attempt in Turn 8, I was a bit too greedy I guess, and locked up, but still happy with the day.” said Vettel.

If the conditions on Sunday remain the same, Vettel will have a genuine shot at race victory, which will be his fourth at the circuit.

Can Vettel win the Belgian Grand Prix? Let us know.