Nico Rosberg: “Every last point will be crucial”

Rosberg currently leads Lewis Hamilton in the title race by 11 points although the German driver insists that, despite nine victories so far in 2014, Mercedes can not yet afford to rest on their laurels.

“Although we have had a great start with plenty of good results, that race [in Hungary] showed that the other teams are never too far away,” he said.

“In Formula One you just can’t afford to give away any advantage and I know that both the team and myself will be working harder than ever to keep improving and maintain our position right to the very end. On top of that, the battle with Lewis has been so close all season – and it could well stay that way right up to the final race – so every last point will be crucial in that contest too.”

Rosberg has never finished on the podium at Spa-Francorchamps but he is optimistic that he can improves his fortunes at the circuit this weekend.

“Next up, of course, we have Belgium, which is definitely one of the most spectacular races of the year,” he said. “The circuit is just unreal and it’s one I think every driver looks forward to. My record there hasn’t been as good as at some other circuits in the past, but I’m determined to change that and get the season kicked off again in style!”