The German, once the runaway championship leader, has fallen 17 points behind with just three races to go off the back of teammate Lewis Hamilton’s run of dominant form.

“It’s difficult for Nico now,” team chairman and Formula 1 legend Niki Lauda was quoted on Tuesday by the German news agency SID, “as Lewis is currently at his very best.”

Even the fans agree. In a survey by the news agency, only 22 per cent believe Rosberg can close down Hamilton’s lead and go on to win the drivers’ title by the chequered flag in Abu Dhabi.

However, the contentious new double points finale could work in the 29-year-old’s favour, as the winner in Abu Dhabi next month will bank 50 rather than the usual 25 points.

Speaking ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Rosberg added said, “I love this rule. I know I can win every race, so my tactics are not really changing. It’s still all to play for in the battle for the drivers’ championship and I won’t be giving up the fight until the flag drops in Abu Dhabi.”

The battle between the Mercedes teammates has been packed with drama and intrigue, which has kept fans interested despite the utter dominance by the Silver Arrows this season.

Rosberg is aware of this, “Hopefully we can keep the entertainment going right to the end for the fans out there enjoying the contest. The first step comes in Austin, which is a really cool city and a great race track.”

“I haven’t had the best races there so far, but I’m determined to change that this year,” he concluded.