Abu Dhabi GP: KERS problem limits Pastor Maldonado to fifth
A KERS problem caused Pastor Maldonado's slide down the field during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
The Williams driver ran third during the race's early stages and held off eventual runner-up Fernando Alonso for the first 21 laps.
But Maldonado subsequently started to lose places. Although late incidents for rival drivers allowed the Venezuelan to regain several spots, he had to settle for fifth.
"I'm disappointed because we missed the podium today," said Maldonado.
"The car was so strong and the pace was as well, but we broke the KERS after the first safety car period and I was so incredibly penalised.
"I spent all the race defending, trying not to get passed by all the other drivers.
"It is so difficult when you have a problem with the car, especially at this track."
While Alonso, Jenson Button and Sergio Perez made it past Maldonado without drama, Mark Webber clashed with the Williams during his passing attempt and spun down the order.
Maldonado said Webber was "unlucky" but only had himself to blame.
"I think Mark was very unlucky because he tried to get the place from me on the outside and he touched my right-front wheel and he spun," said the Spanish Grand Prix winner.
"I'm disappointed for him but he tried an extremely risky manouevre."
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| Series | Formula 1 |
| Drivers | Pastor Maldonado |
| Author | Matt Beer |
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