Just in time

Certainly shocking news. I wonder if Rosberg had in his mind the everyday Joe "if i win the lotto i'll quit tomorrow" thoughts. Really wonder why the guy left. Normally all these high achievers are always looking for more. Looking for another win to validate the previous one. Too much pressure on him? Was he just trying to please his father and win one? The spouse put the foot down?

In any event I am sure the phone must be ringing at MB. I wonder how many Russian oligarch kids are dreaming. At one time I thought MB would sanction Lewis big tine, now not even a slap on the wrist. How times change.

Hulkenberg?

nuvolari612

Nico walked out on top - news that shocked the racing world.

Father made a grown up decision to leave it's what people do when they have their priorities in order ...

Mr. Adair

^ This

FGL28

I see what you mean but there is Vettel and Schumacher and their multiple WDCs

Hoopumpers

i think the above is precise. F1 is a job, and a crazy difficult one, but I think we all want some charisma and some fun to be on display when the worlds greatest reach the pinnacle of our sport. Otherwise, it's just disheartening. Nico never had the gift of charisma, which can't be taught, but is universally recognized. Congratulations to Rosberg. He wasn't my favorite competitor (popularity contest), but he won fair and square, and is a deserving champion.

TM

btw: Nico is retiring from racing not just F1. So no WEC ...

CAlexio

Reminds me of Casey stoner in motogp who retired still young and at top of his game.. except, he won his championship on an unrideable ducati motogp motorcycle which almost killed everyone else who tried to tame it including the GOAT, Valentino Rossi... Rosberg on the other hand barely pulled it off with the best machinery available. Still however, he gave away a possibly long career to spend time with family.

An interesting insight into how f1 drivers truly feel about the sport now is quite candidly highlighted in this video where Hamilton and Alonso speak... very candidly in fact:

jlanka

Maybe Cadillac will enter WEC?

jlanka

Sort of the opposite of Hunt/Lauda

Nurburger

One & done:

http://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/38185846

I guess you have to respect him for making this decision.

DanL993

Yes, the way he was treated is disgusting.

I am no longer a Hamilton or Mercedes fan.

bronson7

Preserve, preserve, preserve. It's not a sprint any more. I agree, it's certainly less fun to watch vs previous years.

M. Schneider

+1. Agreed.

Lemme see? Family VS F1 Champion, ... Good for Nico.

squidge

As a 31-year old father (like Nico) who was rooting for him all season, I think this is awesome and totally respect his decision. Very excited to see who ends up paired with Hamilton. (Lewis has to have something to be overly dramatic about at all times, so it better be someone who can put pressure on him.)

coreseller

You have to respect the guy for leaving while on top.

I'm not sure if it's just me but I'm pretty fed up with the continual fawning via NBC Sports coverage over Hamilton, it's as if he's the only driver worth their attention.

Hamilton once again showed his true colors by holding up the pace in the closing laps defying team orders to the contrary, Lewis is a helluva driver but no sportsman imo. I'd love to see Max in the other Mercedes, now THAT would be entertainment lol!!!!

Enjoy a bit of relaxation Nico, you've earned it......