Rosberg: Tough to make it four Monaco wins in a row

© XPB 

Nico Rosberg says it will be “tough” for him to make it four Monaco Grand Prix wins in a row, with the F1 points leader braced for a stiff challenge this weekend.

The Mercedes man has won the last three races held in the narrow streets of Monte Carlo and enters round six of this year’s championship with a 39-point gap over Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen. But Rosberg explains that heightened competition will make extending his Monaco winning streak difficult.

“It's been amazing to win there for the past three years - but I know it will be tough to repeat that with [Mercedes team-mate] Lewis [Hamilton], the Ferraris and the Red Bulls all so strong now,” said the 31-year-old, who has also claimed victory in four of five grands prix so far this year. “I’m feeling confident, so bring on the battle!”

Rosberg is one of many drivers currently residing in Monaco, but unlike those who recently moved in, the German actually spent his childhood in the Principality.

“It's one of my home races next in Monaco - the ultimate driver's track. It's where I grew up and where I still live today, so that always makes it a special weekend.

“I have memories from every corner going right back to my school days and I always have great support there from my family, my friends and the fans, which gives you that extra boost through the weekend.”

Jacques Villeneuve - Race of my life

Technical analysis: Barcelona

Exclusive Stoffel Vandoorne Q&A

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter