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Lewis Hamilton Nico Rosberg collision Spain 2016

Rosberg explains mindset change to defeat "ruthless" Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton Nico Rosberg collision Spain 2016 — Photo: © LAT Images
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Rosberg explains mindset change to defeat "ruthless" Hamilton

Rosberg was second best to Hamilton three years in a row before being crowned champion in 2016

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Nico Rosberg has explained how he had to "lock himself in a hotel room" after missing out on a second F1 title to then-Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton.

Mercedes dominated the early years of the turbo-hybrid era with Rosberg and Hamilton often untouchable at the front of the field but the British driver took the title in 2014 and 2015 whilst he also beat Rosberg in the standings in 2013.

Rosberg fought back in 2016 with clear newfound aggression to ensure he emulated his father Keke to become champion, with the duo coming to blows in Spain and Austria.

Speaking to Times Magazine, Rosberg described how his mindset changed for his championship year.

“At the time it was like, ‘He’s probably too nice to be world champion against the ruthless Lewis',” said Rosberg.

“I lost to Lewis three years in a row and it was so painful, the last time. I locked myself in a hotel room. I reminded myself that this is an opportunity to push, push, push like hell.

“It just enhanced my motivation, my focus.”

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