Vettel labelled as "amateur" by Italian press following crash in France

The Italian media have suddenly become very critical of their number 1 Ferrari driver after his incidents during the French Grand Prix. Sebastian Vettel, 4-time World Champion, has been labelled as an "amateur".

The German ran into the back of Valtteri Bottas at the start of the race causing damage to his front nose. He had to pit for a nose job and ended up at the back of the pack. Vettel is still well within touching distance of Championship leader Lewis Hamilton, but the Italian media is generating force.

La Gazzetta Dello Sport commented: "Vettel committed an amateur error and this time the consequences are serious. Despite its [Sic] excellent car, for Ferrari, it is once again a wasted opportunity.”

La Repubblica added: "Vettel makes mistakes that he cannot afford if he wants to win another world title.”

By the chequered flag, Vettel recovered somewhat to finish in 5th and pick up 10 championship points. He made plenty of high quality overtakes through the field, and just one Italian publication acknowledged this.

La Stampa said: "It was a great catch up drive, but also ten wasted points because of too much impulsiveness."