Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMercedes

Hamilton would prefer any other rival than Rosberg for title win

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In a candid display of honesty, Lewis Hamilton admitted he would be happier if someone other than his team mate secured the driver's title in the event that his own bid should fail.

Speaking on the Graham Norton Show, the reigning world champion acknowledged the priorities of his Mercedes team, but struggled with the prospect of Nico Rosberg clinching the title.

"It's a difficult one," he said. "'You are a team and the job is for both drivers to get points to win the championships. But individually, we both want to win so we want to beat each other. I'm supposed to say if that if I don't win, I want my team-mate to win, but it's not really the case."

In spite of Hamilton's openness and sincerity, and a relationship between the two men which has been tense and tested in the past 12 months, Lewis put their competitive differences aside yesterday, posting a colorful happy birthday message and picture destined to Rosberg on his Instagram account.

"Sending a big Happy Birthday shout out to my teammate Old Man Nico! Now you're as old as me, but no matter what I'm always gonna look younger cause BLACK DON'T CRACK!"

Click here for FIA President Jean Todt's thoughts on the current state of F1

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.