Sebastian Vettel Q&A: Drivers let Ferrari down

The return of Mexico was a triumph for Formula One racing, but a disaster for Ferrari. Kimi Raikkonen retired through damage, while Sebastian Vettel endured a series of set-backs, some self-inflicted, before ultimately ending his race in the wall. As the German admits, the pace was there - but the drivers couldn't capitalise...

Q: Seb, a touch with Daniel Ricciardo, a spin, and then a crash which forced you to retire - everything that could go wrong seemed to for you today...

Sebastian Vettel: Well, it all started with my bad start. With the puncture, the consequence was that my race was already over. Of course you always try to bounce back but in trying to do so I made two mistakes - and the second one knocked me out.

Q: So you take the blame?

SV: Yes, I have already apologised...

Q: You have been slightly sick this weekend - was that a factor in your race?

SV: No, not at all. It was human error and not virus related!

Q: How long will it take you to recover?

SV: It was not a good day for us today. The car was good - just not the drivers. My guess is that we would have been able to put pressure on Mercedes, but it didn't come to that point after my puncture.

Q: Nico Rosberg winning the race, and you retiring, means that P2 in the drivers' championship is suddenly going to be very tough...

SV: Yes, that is pretty sad to say! Well these things happen. We have gone very far since the start of the season so not everything can work out like you want. From the performance that we've shown all season long though it is clear that we will be there next year to fight for the titles.

Q: It might have been a difficult race for you, but it was a big day for Formula One - packed grandstands, an unbelievable atmosphere...

SV: I remember this kind of scenario when I was going to a race with my dad when I was a kid. It was a bit like travelling back in time. That makes it all the more sad that Ferrari didn't show their true colours here.