Rosberg starts second part of 2016 from ‘a clean slate’

Nico Rosberg says this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix represents “a clean slate” for him, with the Mercedes driver keen to steal team-mate Lewis Hamilton’s thunder at Spa-Francorchamps.

After opening his 2016 campaign with a perfect run of four wins, Rosberg then saw his title rival erase a 43-point deficit to surge 19 points clear with six victories in the last seven races.

“For me, it's like a clean slate at this stage,” the German said. “What's happened so far this season is in the past. I can't wait to get in that car, put my foot down and get everything I can from these next races.

“Belgium is a great place to kick start the year after the break. It's such an awesome track, with so many challenges and usually some crazy weather just to mix things up even more.

“I’m feeling strong in myself, I know I'll have the best car out there and I'm massively pumped to be back on track, so let's see how it goes.”

Having never tasted victory at Spa-Francorchamps, Rosberg says the historic nature of the venue makes it all the more enticing to join the F1 greats who have won in the Ardennes.

“If you look back through the years, there have been some great moments too - that mega move from Mika Häkkinen on Michael Schumacher down the Kemmel straight [in 2000], for example.

“All of that history just makes it even more special, so I'd love to add my name to the winner's list.”

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