Rosberg: “The most unpleasant race of my life”

Nico Rosberg secured the world title at the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix by taking 2nd place behind his rival Lewis Hamilton. The German had to resist the pressure put on by his teammate who deliberately slowed his pace to let the other cars get back on the Championship leader and hope that they take the advantage over the first contender for the title. A 4th place for Rosberg would have allowed the Briton to snatch the coronation.

“It was the most unpleasant race of my life. The sensations experienced during this race, my fight with Max (Verstappen), it all seemed really unreal, explained Nico Rosberg at a press conference. I hope I don't have to go through that again in my career. It wasn't any quieter at the end with the pressure coming from behind and Lewis slowing down in front of me. »

“The race was really very intense, it will take a little more time for the pressure to go down, I was so stressed at the wheel, insisted Nico Rosberg. These last laps, where I could lose everything with two drivers chasing behind me, were really not easy to live with. I'm very happy that it's over. I congratulate Lewis because he had a very good season, it’s always difficult to beat him. »

Nico Rosberg won his first world title by winning 5 points ahead of Lewis Hamilton who concluded the season with 4 victories in a row.

Discover the analysis of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in AUTO issue 2091hebdo, available from Monday evening in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.