Sainz says Antonelli crossed the line with ’insult’

Carlos Sainz has told teenaged world championship leader Kimi Antonelli to "relax" after the pair clashed during Friday practice at Spa.

Antonelli believed the Williams driver had compromised his flying lap, while Sainz insisted the Mercedes youngster had overreacted.

"I suppose nowadays if you don’t move out of the way exactly as the driver behind would like, you can’t turn properly because you don’t have enough downforce with the wings open," Sainz said.

"And maybe he felt I could have moved out of the way better, but I also don’t think he should call me an idiot over the radio."

Sainz believes Formula 1 drivers should avoid publicly insulting one another.

"I think it’s against the rules to insult another competitor, so I think he should relax a bit," said the 30-year-old, who is a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association.

Antonelli’s emotional reaction surprised some observers, given the 19-year-old has built a reputation for his calm and approachable personality during his breakthrough championship campaign.

Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali says that image has helped Antonelli and the sport connect with a new generation of fans.

"I’m proudly Italian, and seeing the Italian elements playing a leading role in Formula 1 makes me happy," he told Sky Italia at Spa.

"Kimi’s effect on the young audience is evident.

"With his freshness, his spontaneity, and his way of experiencing these successes, he has attracted new fans."