So much has been written about Nico Rosberg’s retirement a mere five days after he sealed the 2016 Formula 1 World Championship title – splitting opinions of Formula 1 fans and pundits – some claiming bravery while others cry cowardice.
In the end none of us know better than Formula 1 drivers themselves what it takes to call it quits at the very top of the sport.
So over to them and their sound bites in the aftermath of the biggest news story of the 2016 Formula 1 season:
Sergio Perez: “Definitely a great Champion!!!! Big admiration.”
Romain Grosjean: “Respect my friend! @nico_rosberg.”
Kevin Magnussen: “Big respect.”
Nico Hülkenberg: “Respect, @nico_rosberg! Hope you will enjoy your time at the barbecue.”
Damon Hill: “Well done Nico. More to life than chasing round in circles. Respect.”
Esteban Ocon: “There is no better way to retire than on the top??You will be truly missed in the Paddock! See you soon Nico!”
Felipe Massa: “Congratulations my brother @nico_rosberg for this incredible career that you had!! Champion!”
Nigel Mansell: “Nico what a brave very brave decision, he has some very powerful reasons I am sure. Brilliant World Champion.Very interesting for Merc now.”
Juan Pablo Montoya: “Incredible news about @nico_rosberg retiring from F1. Very brave making that decision.”
Johnny Herbert: “Wow @nico_rosberg retiring as a World Champion..actually what a great way to end a great career. Enjoy your family time.”
Alex Wurz: “I have the greatest respect of @F1 #worldchampion @nico_rosberg.”
Carlos Sainz: “Boom! Nico you really surprised us there… Great champion, well deserved time off with your family and enjoy your success.”
Pascal Wehrlein: “Big respect @nico_rosberg! Wish you all the best for your future!
Thank you for all your advices!”
Marcus Ericsson: “Very surprised! But the biggest respect @nico_rosberg . Great champion. Enjoy your next chapter in life ”
Karun Chandhok: “Extraordinary news from @nico_rosberg… Come on Toto! Do a deal with Mclaren and get Fernando back – now that will be entertaining!!”
Giedo van der Garde: “What a surprise. He’ll leave F1 with a big achievement done. @nico_rosberg respect my man…”
Max Chilton: “I just broke the shock news of @nico_rosberg retirement from F1 on @5liveSport. I am blown away but I have nothing but praise for him.”
Pedro de la Rosa: “Did anyone see that one coming? Not me! All the best for @nico_rosberg on his new life after F1. What a great career he leaves behind.”
And last but not least a word from his mate turned nemesis Lewis Hamilton: “This is the first time he’s won (a title) in 18 years, hence why it was not a surprise that he decided to stop. He’s also got a family to focus on, and wants more children, and Formula 1 takes so much of your time. Will I miss the rivalry? Of course.”
Other stories that were huge and deserve a mention include:
- Fernando Alonso’s terrifying crash during the Australian Grand Prix
- Red Bull demote Daniil Kvyat and promote Max Verstappen
- Max Verstappen breaks all records as he wins Spanish Grand Prix in Red Bull debut
- Mercedes drivers Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton collide on the opening lap of Spanish Grand Prix
- Liberty Media’s arrival on the scene to buy Formula 1 from CVC