BRAVO ! RESPECT !
To beat him Nico had to dig deeper than ever , go that extra mile or two on just about every related front and to come out tops in the psychological games that prevail at that level – he ticked all three boxes to be a more than worthy and deserving champion .
Now he rides off into the sunset , the fighter quitting at the very top of his game , with the biggest prize on his mantelpiece sure to prompt a smile every time he walks past it . He did what very few have managed on his way to becoming the 33rd Formula 1 World Champion .
His departure has been gracious , the real Nico emerging in the aftermath of a very long season season . A genuinely nice guy with a great sense of humour and humility . The hard facade required to be a F1 driver in the modern era is now gone . The relief and sense of achievement palpable .
Although only time will tell , I believe he is gone for good with no regrets and no desire to return .
For me the most touching moment of the entire year , came a couple of days after Abu Dhabi , when Nico was looking for his father ’ s name etched onto the Formula 1 champions ’ trophy , finding it and tapping it with a finger , smiling with pride , knowing his name would be on it too . Mission accomplished for the man , and for the family Rosberg .
Bravo ! Respect Nico !