Shortly after a meeting with the FIA determined that no further penalty be applied other than the 10-second stop/go sanction he received during the race, Vettel issued a public apology to Hamilton.

Coming more than a week after the controversial clash between the Ferrari and Mercedes drivers, it was the first time Vettel had admitted fault over the incident.

“During the restart lap, I got surprised by Lewis and ran into the back of his car,” Vettel wrote on his website. “With hindsight, I don't believe he had any bad intentions.

“In the heat of the action I then overreacted, and therefore I want to apologise to Lewis directly, as well as to all the people who were watching the race. I realise that I was not setting a good example.

“I had no intention at any time to put Lewis in danger, but I understand that I caused a dangerous situation.

“Therefore, I would like to apologise to the FIA. I accept and respect the decisions that were taken at today’s meeting in Paris, as well as the penalty imposed by the Stewards in Baku.

“I love this sport and I am determined to represent it in a way that can be an example for future generations.”

While the FIA has deemed the incident does not warrant further penalty, Vettel has agreed to volunteer in helping young racing drivers at events this year across a range of FIA championships.

FIA President Jean Todt said that should Vettel reoffend in similar style to the Baku incident he would be referred to the FIA International Tribunal for further investigation.

“Top level sport is an intense environment in which tempers can flare,’ Todt said. “However, it is the role of top sportsmen to deal with that pressure calmly and to conduct themselves in a manner that not only respects the regulations of the sport but which befits the elevated status they enjoy.

“Sportsmen must be cognisant of the impact their behaviour can have on those who look up to them. They are heroes and role models and to millions of fans worldwide and must conduct themselves accordingly.”