During the race weekend, Lando Norris exceeded expectations, surpassing Hamilton and leaving Charles Leclerc from Ferrari in seventh place, two positions behind his teammate Carlos Sainz.
At the Chinese Grand Prix, former Formula 1 driver Nico Rosberg swiftly responded to a comment made by Sky Sports F1 pundit Karun Chandhok regarding Rosberg’s previous rivalry with Lewis Hamilton.
Currently, Rosberg is part of the broadcasting team for Sky at the event, which had a dramatic start due to a grass fire interrupting the initial practice session.
This was followed by Lando Norris securing the top position for the Saturday sprint race in a remarkable finish against Hamilton.
Throughout the race weekend, Norris exceeded expectations, overtaking Hamilton and leaving Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in seventh place, two positions behind his teammate Carlos Sainz.
With only six points separating Sainz and Leclerc in the drivers’ standings, tension is expected as Sainz will be replaced by Hamilton, who is on track to become a seven-time world champion by the end of 2024.
During the broadcast, Rosberg discussed the potential dynamics of the race weekend, stating, “We are all eagerly anticipating that dynamic once again. Charles doesn’t appear to be someone who seeks conflict with his teammate.”
Chandhok’s response, “Like you?” led to an uncomfortable exchange on air. Rosberg replied, “Come on. That’s not a nice thing to say,” and then continued with his commentary.
Rosberg and Hamilton had a notably contentious relationship during their four-year partnership at Mercedes.
During this period, Rosberg claimed his only world championship in 2016 before retiring at the age of 31 to focus on his family life.
Despite frequently finishing as the runner-up to Hamilton, their rivalry escalated to several public disagreements, with Rosberg humorously mentioning that it nearly turned physical.
Christian Horner’s #RedBull still facing potential dismissal as the #FIA intervenes.
Since retiring, Rosberg has made efforts to mend his relationship with Hamilton. In an interview with the German publication Suddeutsche Zeitung, Rosberg shared, “Lewis and I have repaired our friendship. We see each other occasionally. Every Christmas, my daughters receive a large box filled with gifts from him,” indicating a significant improvement in their personal relationship post-retirement.
This reconciliation highlights a more amicable conclusion to what was once an intense competitive saga between the two champions.