Kobayashi apologises to Sauber

SILVERSTONE, England, July 8, 2012 (AFP) - Kamui Kobayashi has apologised to his Sauber team after injuring three mechanics during a pit-stop in Sunday's British Grand Prix.

The 25-year-old Japanese driver did not brake early enough and wound up overshooting his allocated position, knocking down three mechanics with the right side of his car in the process.

Two of the mechanics were taken to the medical centre sporting cuts, bruises and a dislocated thumb, the third mechanic bruised his foot and was treated in the team's garage.

Kobayashi admitted he had not braked early enough and apologised to his team for the accident.

"The accident was my fault and I want to apologise to the team," he said.

"Of course I had to push hard for points, but without doubt I braked too late in the pitlane.

"The front wheels locked, I couldn't control the car, and this is how I overshot the pit box. I am terribly sorry this happened, and I hope the three mechanics I hit get well soon."

Despite a strong showing out on the track, Kobayashi lost almost 20 seconds from the incident and wound up out of the points in 11th position.