Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton retired from the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday and was called an "idiot" by Fernando Alonso after the two drivers collided on the first lap as they battled for second place.
Two-time world champion Alonso had lined up third on the grid for Alpine, with seven-time Mercedes champion Hamilton at his side.
Alonso made a great start to seize second place from Red Bull's Sergio Pérez, while Hamilton moved up to third and attempted to overtake the Spaniard, spinning after over half a car distance.
They collided, Hamilton's Mercedes going airborne and hitting the curbs before parking alongside the track, ending his record of finishing every race this year.
"What an idiot, closing the door from the outside," Alonso exclaimed over the radio of his former McLaren teammate and winner of a record 103 races. "We got off to a great start, but this guy only knows how to drive if he starts first."
The stewards investigated the incident and decided not to take any further action. Alpine said Alonso's car appeared to be undamaged.
Hamilton, the sport's most successful driver of all time, continued for half a lap before slowing and stopping as smoke billowed from the rear of his Mercedes.
