Rosberg: Relationship with Hamilton ‘remains the same’

Editor

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has sought to downplay the ongoing feud with team-mate Lewis Hamilton.

The German’s comments come after last Sunday’s crash at the Spanish Grand Prix which saw both drivers retire after the first lap when Hamilton spun after finding himself pushed onto the grass, the Briton’s Mercedes was sent into a spin which collected Rosberg on its way into the gravel trap.

It was not the first time that the pair have paid the price for an intense on-track tussle, but Rosberg has insisted that the crash has not negatively affected his relationship with Hamilton, a relationship that came under considerable strain last season.

“It’s always very hard work because we are fighting for the championship. Obviously, it didn’t go well for us on Sunday, but our relationship remains as before,” said the German.

The 30-year-old considered having clear-the-air talks with Hamilton after the incident, but indicated on Tuesday night he felt there was no need.

Team boss Toto Wolff said neither driver was entirely to blame, but racing legends Niki Lauda and Sir Jackie Stewart have criticised Hamilton with Stewart calling for Mercedes to fine the British three-time World Champion.

“They are so much better than any other team – and then for Hamilton to throw the steering wheel out of the car. Probably US$40,000-$50,000 of steering wheel. Emotion is a very dangerous thing,” he said.

Mercedes have no plans to punish either driver.

“That’s the past, so let’s look ahead – I don’t think about it anymore,” Rosberg added.

Rosberg still leads the Drivers’ Championship by 39 points (100 points) with Hamilton in third (57 points) heading into the Monaco Grand Prix.