Winterbottom sorry for Reynolds incident

Mark Winterbottom has apologised for late-race contact with David Reynolds, which also hampered Chaz Mostert.

Winterbottom was classified 18th in the Tasmania opener, having received a 15-second post-race penalty for the clash.

With seven laps remaining, the battle for eighth when Winterbottom tagged Reynolds, spinning both drivers to the infield.

Mostert, in close proximity behind, picked up front splitter damage, lost three laps and the series lead.

Winterbottom later put his hand up for his role in the dramatic incident.

"A tough day today. We had great car speed but not a lot to show for it," said Winterbottom, who was on the opposite end of an incident in Sydney.

"We were making moves, we were coming through the field up to P9 before I made contact with Dave Reynolds and ruined both our races.

"I put my hand up for that. It was my mistake and just tagged him by the smallest margins so I went to say sorry.

"I'm sure everyone hates apologies but it is what it is.”

Reynolds set the fastest lap of the race, but didn’t pick up bonus points as he finished outside the top 15.

The Grove Racing veteran admitted he was surprised by Winterbottom’s move.

"I was in a good battle for the top 10 before I got turned around by Frosty,” he said.

"I felt pretty surprised by the contact, that’s not usually his style and but that’s motor racing.

"We’ve got good car speed which shows with the fastest lap of the race today.

"We have some positives to build off and if we can get ourselves in a good spot to start the two races, then I’m confident we can turn the weekend around."

Cars will return to the track on Sunday for dual qualifying sessions from 10:35am AEDT. CLICK HERE to purchase your tickets.

Every session of the event will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 506 and streamed on Kayo.

The Seven Network will broadcast highlights on Saturday and Sunday.