Charles Leclerc issues 'too close' verdict after scary Oscar Piastri clash

Charles Leclerc has admitted his clash with Oscar Piastri during the Belgian Grand Prix was "too close" after securing a podium finish at Spa-Francorchamps.

The Monegasque enjoyed a strong race at the circuit where he claimed his first Formula 1 victory back in 2019, with another win at Spa briefly looking possible.

Leclerc surged from fourth to second on the opening lap before slipping back a position after being overtaken by Max Verstappen.

Piastri soon attempted an overtake around the outside of Les Combes on lap eight, although the pair made contact at high speed. While debris flew into the air, both drivers avoided crashing in what could have been a huge accident.

From that moment, Leclerc settled into the race and even took the lead following a cheap pit stop under the virtual safety car.

Unfortunately, the Ferrari driver could not keep Kimi Antonelli behind, resulting in a second-place finish at the chequered flag.

"Again, on Thursday, I think we kind of expected to be very far back, maybe to the extent of four or five tenths," examined Leclerc. 

"In qualifying, that was true, but in the race we were a bit closer than we thought. So, it’s been positive. 

"I think on two tracks which, on paper, were quite bad for us, we won and we finished second, with a little bit of luck, but still, I think it was a good effort from the team. On two tracks that didn’t fit our car particularly well, we’ve scored good points."

The incident between Leclerc and Piastri was investigated by the stewards, although it was decided that no further action was required.

It was a hair-raising moment, and one which on another day could have had terrible consequences.

Asked about the incident with Piastri, Leclerc said: Well, I would prefer to speak about lap one, to be honest, but lap eight was too close. Luckily, it didn’t have any consequences for either my race or his race, so that’s good."