Hamilton exits Italian GP in tussle with Massa
The Associated Press, Monza, Italy | Sun, 09/12/2010 7:57 PM
Formula One championship leader Lewis Hamilton has lasted only one lap at the Italian Grand Prix following a collision with Ferrari rival Felipe Massa.
Hamilton's front right tire made contact with Massa's car as the two tussled for the inside line on Sunday at the Monza circuit.
The incident happened at the Variante Della Roggia chicane. Hamilton went off at the next corner with his McLaren unable to steer right.
Hamilton had started fifth but moved up ahead of Mark Webber of Red Bull to trail Massa, who was third.
McLaren teammate Jenson Button passed pole sitter Fernando Alonso of Ferrari to lead after the opening corner.
Hamilton, the 2008 champion, leads the standings with 182 points, three better than Webber.
