Does Rosberg want to return and fill the empty seat at Mercedes?
F1 News
With Fernando Alonso, who has re-signed a contract at the age of 42, and Lewis Hamilton far from retirement, Nico Rosberg was questioned as the next "old-timer." Rosberg does not let himself be influenced and remains steadfast about a possible return to Mercedes. Rosberg retired in 2016 and is 'only' 38.
Will Rosberg return to Mercedes?
With an open seat at Mercedes, there is much speculation about the driver who will fill this spot. Names such as Carlos Sainz, Andrea Kimi Antonelli or even Sebastian Vettel are mentioned, but one name can already be removed from the list: Nico Rosberg. The 38-year-old German has no intention of returning to the cockpit.
"I’m done with that! Even though there would be an opportunity at Mercedes," Rosberg told Sky Sports. Nevertheless, he shows respect for his peers who are still performing at top level. "Fernando is turning 43 in a couple of months, and to see him still driving at the very, very best level is incredible. It’s only because he’s one of the best drivers of all time that he’s able to do that." The German also praised his old teammate, Lewis Hamilton. "Lewis was maybe still the best on the grid. But now, the beginning of the season has been a little bit more difficult. But surely Lewis is going to be the same and go into his 40s without a problem."
Will Antonelli replace Hamilton?
"Antonelli is definitely a superstar of the future. But unfortunately, timing-wise, it’s really too early for him. And especially too early for Toto," said Rosberg. He, therefore, advises the young Italian to first focus on his career in Formula 2 or start at another Formula 1 team. "He does need a really strong season in Formula 2 to make it possible for him to go straight to Mercedes. Otherwise, if anything, some time at Williams would make sense."