Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has apologised after a collision with Fernando Alonso forced him to retire from the Belgian Grand Prix. Alonso felt his former teammate had cut across him, and said into the radio: ‘What an idiot! Hamilton later told Sky Sports: ‘He was in my blind spot and I didn’t give him enough space, so that’s my fault. Hamilton initially carried on but was then told to stop by Mercedes staff. It will be the first time he has not made a chequered flag this season. Away from the frantic start, championship leader Max Verstappen advanced to first in the Grand Prix after starting down in 14th.

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