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Nico Rosberg believes Mercedes now ranks among the greatest teams in F1 history after securing a second consecutive Constructors’ title at Sochi last weekend.
The German manufacturer has been stamping its authority on the sport since the introduction of the new hybrid 1.6-litre V6 turbocharged power units in 2014, leaving only a few crumbs to the competition.
Having joined Mercedes from Williams when the former took over Brawn Grand Prix at the end of 2009, Rosberg thinks today’s victories taste even sweeter after the constructor initially endured a difficult return as a works outfit.
“I've seen this team grow since the start of the Silver Arrows project in 2010 and the level we've got to now, all working together, is unbelievable,” said Rosberg.
“There were some really tough years at the start but we are now the big team of Formula One - dominating the sport and breaking records along the way.
“When people think of F1 throughout history, it's only a handful of teams like McLaren in the 80's, Williams in the 90's and Ferrari in the 2000's that come to mind, and we are now making our own mark on that list.”
Rosberg, who does not mention Red Bull’s 2010-13 dominance for some reason, suffered a difficult Russian Grand Prix, with his Sochi retirement paving the way for team-mate Lewis Hamilton’s third Drivers' title.
Having travelled to the team’s UK facilities of Brackley and Brixworth, the German was able to find solace in the fact that Mercedes looks poised to continue their current run of success in the future.
“It's been a tough couple of days for me, but being back at the factories and seeing all my colleagues so happy after the championship win really puts a smile back on my face.
“What's amazing is that there's so much potential here too. Together, there's no limit to what we can achieve in the coming years.
“I look forward to many more great memories and exciting times ahead.”
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