Pole sitter Nico Rosberg expects the run down to Turn 1 to be “a long battle” at the start of Sunday’s Mexican Grand Prix, and is eager to fend off any new attack from Lewis Hamilton.
After topping the second and third free practice sessions at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Rosberg beat his Mercedes team-mate by nearly two tenths in qualifying to secure his fourth consecutive pole position.
“I don't have a precise explanation,” said the German. “It has felt good all weekend, I've been quick in different sessions and just found a good balance. I was able to push and got a really good lap in.”
Rosberg was beaten to the first corner twice over the past three races, with Hamilton muscling his way past at Suzuka and Austin. Their latest clash left the German quite angry, as he felt the Briton had gone “too far”.
Rosberg has yet to return to winning ways since the Austrian Grand Prix last June and knows how crucial leading on the opening lap is. Despite the Mexican GP venue featuring one of the longest start/finish straights on the F1 calendar, the 30-year-old feels he is in the best possible spot ahead of the race
“It's a good start for sure starting from pole, but it is a long battle to the first corner so it will be an exciting battle.”
Asked if he will seek to have a word with Hamilton before the start, Rosberg replied:
“No, it’s not different. It’s always going to be battle. What’s in the past is in the past and we move forward.”
REPORT: Rosberg beats Hamilton to Mexican GP pole
AS IT HAPPENED: Mexican Grand Prix - Qualifying
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