Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel's Baku Clash: 'He Disgraced Himself'

The 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix was only the second F1 race on the Baku street circuit, yet it delivered chaos fans still talk about nearly a decade later. Most memorable was the clash between Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton - a moment that defined their rivalry.

Vettel arrived holding a 12-point championship lead over Hamilton.

Why it matters:

The incident became a defining flashpoint in the 2017 title battle, showing how quickly composure can crack under pressure - and how one moment can alter a championship.

The details:

• During the second safety car period, Hamilton was leading and controlling the pace ahead of the restart, as permitted.
• Vettel misjudged and ran into the back of Hamilton's Mercedes exiting Turn 15.
• Convinced he had been brake-tested, Vettel pulled alongside and deliberately steered his Ferrari into the side of Hamilton's car.
• Telemetry confirmed Hamilton had not braked unusually. Vettel received a 10-second stop-go penalty and three penalty points.
• Hamilton's reaction: "He disgraced himself today."
• A cruel twist: A loose headrest forced an unscheduled stop for Hamilton while leading, dropping him to fifth behind Vettel's fourth.
• Daniel Ricciardo won for Red Bull, while teenage Lance Stroll claimed his maiden podium for Williams.

The big picture:

Vettel left Baku with his lead extended, but the momentum would not last. Hamilton mounted a relentless charge and eventually sealed the 2017 title.