Reflective Wolff admits admiration for Rosberg quit decision

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has confessed his admiration for the decision of Nico Rosberg to step away from Formula 1 after clinching the 2016 world championship as the Austrian considers his own position within the paddock.

Wolff has not shied away from questions regarding his future and had frequently said he does not want to go from being "very good" in his role to just "good".

Mercedes has claimed both the constructors' and drivers' world titles for six consecutive seasons and are odds on to repeat the feat for a seventh time.

Knowing he has won all there is to win in the sport, Wolff was questioned whether his own self-confessed "period of reflection" has given his a fresh appreciation for the decision taken by Rosberg at the end of 2016.

The 48-year-old said: “I’ve always seen the decision of Nico with a certain admiration and rigorousness, because he felt it was the time to go. He felt that he went beyond the point of what he could sustain long-term, and because he achieved what he always wanted to achieve and that is to be a Formula 1 world champion.

“I think you need to listen to yourself, which is not always difficult – I can set-up a car more easily than to set-up myself and in that respect, it is not only Covid but where Formula 1 is going too."

Along with the other nine teams currently competing in F1, Mercedes has signed the new Concorde Agreement, a document that will see Mercedes remain in the sport until at least 2025.

With the future of the team secure, Wolff added: “It’s to take the right decision for my team which is my highest priority. I love to work with the people and enjoy the comradery, enjoy the ups and downs, and I couldn’t wish for a better group of people.

"This is all part of my consideration.

“Obviously, I’m discussing everything with Ola Källenius [Mercedes chairman] and with Susie [Wolff - Formula E Venturi team principal], and hopefully I’ll be in the same place next year to discuss with you. If not, I will be staying close to the team.”

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