Alonso hits out at 'idiot' Hamilton after dramatic first-lap collision

Fernando Alonso labelled Lewis Hamilton as an "idiot" after their early collision in the Belgian Grand Prix.

On the opening lap at Spa-Francorchamps, the two World Champions collided, with Hamilton attempting to go around the outside of Alonso for second place.

However, Alonso's front-left wheel collected Hamilton's rear-right, launching the Mercedes into the air before a hard landing in the Les Combes (Turn 5) run-off.

Hamilton initially continued, but later pulled off the track due to severe damage, with fluids pouring from the car.

Alonso makes his feelings clear over the radio

Alonso was less than complimentary of former teammate Hamilton on the team radio.

"Yeah, what an idiot! Closing the door from the outside," exclaimed the Spanish driver.

"I mean, we had a mega start, but this guy only knows how to drive and start in first!"

Hamilton eventually stopped his car at Blanchimont, with the Safety Car deployed after another incident on Lap 2 involving Nicholas Latifi and Valtteri Bottas – the Finn also retiring.

The stewards looked into the Alonso/Hamilton clash but opted against taking any further action.