Rosberg on losing F1 points lead: ‘Still a long way to go’

Nico Rosberg says that losing the Formula One points lead to Mercedes team-mate and 2016 Hungarian Grand Prix winner Lewis Hamilton does not give him cause for concern.

Having topped the Drivers’ standings since the opening round in Australia, Rosberg has relinquished first place after coming home second in Budapest.

Lining up on pole position at the Hungaroring, the German was overhauled by his British rival into Turn 1. Rosberg even briefly slipped down to third behind Daniel Ricciardo before clawing back ahead of the Red Bull driver at the next corner.

“For sure, the race was decided there,” Rosberg said. “My start was OK but slightly down on Lewis’ start and Daniel’s also. Daniel had a good tow and Lewis just had the inside line and I lost out into Turn 1. It got a bit tight so I had to back out.

“I was happy to get Daniel back on the outside of Turn 2 and from there on I put all the pressure possible on Lewis, of course it’s not possible to pass at this track.”

Rosberg adds that trailing Hamilton for the first time this year will not change his approach ahead of next weekend’s German Grand Prix.

“It’s very close. It’s been a good season so far. Up to now, it’s been a good battle with Lewis and as I’ve always said, I’m not counting the points. It is still a long long way to go and everything is possible.

“I just want to focus on winning races. That’s what I wanted to do today. It did not work out unfortunately as I lost out in Turn one so now I move my focus on to Hockenheim. It’s my home race and I’m really looking forward to going and racing there and try to win.”

REPORT: Hamilton holds off Rosberg to take championship lead

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