Lance Stroll admitted surprise at Charles Leclerc avoiding a penalty for their Lap 1 clash at the Russian Grand Prix.
The Monegasque spun the Racing Point into the wall exiting Turn 4 in much the same way Lewis Hamilton collided with Alex Albon back in Austria and received a five-second penalty.
Yet, as Stroll was left to lick the wounds of his second straight retirement due to a crash, Leclerc continued unaffected, going on to finish sixth.
“‘I’m quite surprised he didn’t get a penalty,” the Canadian said post-race.
“I gave him plenty of room. I did the whole corner on the outside and he just tagged my right rear. I gave him all the room I could and it was unlucky, but he could have avoided it.
“He didn’t have to run so wide into me. I think it’s ridiculous he didn’t get a penalty.
“A lot was possible today. I think I was P7 at that point. I had a great start on the good tyre, so it’s really a shame.”
Giving his side of the story, Leclerc claimed the turbulent air of Stroll’s teammate Sergio Perez caused him to lose front grip.
“I tried to go on the inside of Lance in turn four,” said the Ferrari driver via RaceFans. “Then in the middle of the corner, Perez took the apex.
“When I was behind him, I understeered quite a bit and then we made contact with Lance.”
