Nico Rosberg Tells Toto Wolff: Replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes
Nico Rosberg rules out comeback, tells Toto Wolff: replace Lewis Hamilton at MercedesFormer Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg has said he will not return to racing after being handed the Mercedes seat vacated by Lewis Hamilton’s shock exit in 2025. This year, Rosberg, who beat Hamilton in 2016, turned down the chance to replace his former team-mate despite being tied for the title seven times.With Hamilton moving to Ferrari this year, Mercedes will be looking for a new driver in 2025 alongside George Russell. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff is reportedly considering signing a young talent from the Mercedes academy as a short-term replacement. , Andrea Kimi Antonelli, for a smooth transition to F1.
However, Rosberg, Vettel and Alonso were mentioned as possible replacements, but Rosberg clearly ruled him out. In an interview with German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung, he said: “It’s over, I’m not going back.” After retiring in 2016, he had a great respect for the dangers at the pinnacle of motorsport and insisted he could not physically return even if he wanted to.”In order to train the synapses (nerve connections) in my brain, I have to train very hard all year round. A racer has to react very quickly and precisely. After a long break, I lose it. Muscles are such victims. Centrifugal high pressure to push the steering wheel,” he said. Rosberg.
This year, the former competitor, who retired just days after winning the 2016 World Championships, insists he cannot risk his physical and mental health during his return. With Hamilton activating the escape clause in his two-year contract with Mercedes, the team is now looking for a driver who can form a better partnership with Russell.By ruling out the possibility of a return, Rosberg sent a clear message to Toto Wolff that Mercedes must find a replacement for Rosberg. It remains to be seen who will be chosen to replace Hamilton and take on the challenge of competing with Russell at F1’s number one team.