Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team driver Nico Rosberg was happy with his performance at the Mexican Grand Prix, and applauded the Mexican fans for turning out in such numbers and making the atmosphere so amazing.
“The Mexican fans were really outstanding again.
“I got goose bumps already in the stadium before the race at the driver’s parade. But then, when the people were calling my name on the podium that was the most emotional moment of the weekend.”
Despite getting a good start off the line, Rosberg was hampered briefly when Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen careered into the side of the Mercedes, trying to make a pass on the German through the first corner.
It was a reasonably heavy shunt, but a fair one, that pushed Rosberg onto the grass. Thankfully both drivers were able to hold position and continue on with their race.
“I had a tough race today. At the start I had a good getaway and thought I would be able to take the lead from Lewis, when I saw he had a massive lock up and went straight through the grass.
“Then, suddenly, Verstappen hit me heavily after he had a lock up too and forced me off the track. Luckily my car wasn’t damaged and it didn’t cost me a position.”
Having recovered from that hairy moment on the first lap, Rosberg had no answer for the pace of team-mate Lewis Hamilton who was out ahead, and also had to contend with both advancing Red Bull’s at different moments of the race.
Despite that pressure however, the German held on to second place, which is all he needed to do to keep one hand firmly on the title.
“Lewis was that little bit quicker today, so I didn’t manage to achieve my goal and win here again. But being second is not too bad overall.”
Rosberg will use the two week break between now and the Brazilian Grand Prix to re-focus and come back stronger for the next race.
The Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace is a circuit that should play more to the strengths of the W07, and the German believes he can put in a strong performance there.
“Now I look forward to flying home after two long weeks and relaxing a bit with my family, ready to come back stronger in Brazil and go for the win there.
“I think the Interlagos track suits our car much better, so I’m looking forward to going there and seeing what we can do.”
