Rosberg now in the F1 winner’s circle and ready for title charge
19 April, 2012
Nico Rosberg parks his Mercedes after winning the Chinese Grand Prix
Apr.19 (GMM) Nico Rosberg’s breakthrough win proves he is ready to fight even for the Formula 1 world championship, according to former grand prix winner, team boss and co-owner Gerhard Berger, following Rosberg’s first pole and win in China last weekend.
In Shanghai Nico stood on the top step of an F1 podium for the first time in his career
“It surprised not me, but all the others who had doubted him,” the Austrian told Auto Bild Motorsport.
“It was about time. I was worried,” Berger smiled, “because I have always said I thought Nico was faster than Michael (Schumacher).
“Now he is finally where he has belonged for a long time — in the same league as Vettel, Hamilton, Alonso and Button,” he insisted.
“And when the (Mercedes) car is good enough, he is already ready for the world title.”
Berger, then as BMW motor sport director, said he was instrumental in 2002 in convincing Sir Frank Williams to give the then 17-year-old Rosberg his first F1 test.
Also welcoming Sunday’s breakthrough is Nelson Piquet junior, another son of a world champion who actually went to kindergarten with Rosberg in Monaco.
“It’s funny how in F1 things can take so long to happen,” the Brazilian told Globo.
“It took him more than six years to get his first victory, which for me is a long time considering how good a driver he is,” added Piquet, now in Nascar.
Related posts:
- Rosberg admits 2010 title chances over
- 2010 F1 team mate rivalries to impact title
- Rosberg insists Merc mods good for him
- Rosberg: Mercedes not yet ready to win
- Chinese GP: The winners and the losers
As for Nelsinho, he should be back in F1. As a Massa fan I don’t blame him for Singapore, but the other 3 can go to hell!
“It was about time. I was worried,” Berger smiled, “because I have always said I thought Nico was faster than Michael (Schumacher). lolzz this is the jealousy of MR BERGER for schumi..