Rosberg unfazed by wet race prospect

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Nico Rosberg will launch his championship title bid from second after being edged out for pole by team mate Lewis Hamilton for the third time in succession.

Rosberg was just a tad slower than Hamilton in the track's middle sector during the final Q3 run, but the margin was enough to land the British driver pole, leaving the German a bit frustrated.

"It was very close, and that's why it's a little bit disappointing," admitted Rosberg.

"Because one tenth, you think "Okay, there I could have pulled out a tenth maybe," so that's not ideal but that's' the way it is."

Statistically, qualifying order and race results have been identical in Brazil in the last two years. So Rosberg will require something extra to take command of his team mate and the race tomorrow.

"Strategy may be a possibility but the tyres are really going to struggle in the long run because it's so cold.

"Anyway, as we've seen this year, pole isn't always the guy who then wins the race, so I'm still optimistic for tomorrow, because of course I want to try to win the race tomorrow."

Many are expecting rain could prevail in tomorrow's race, but Rosberg is determined to deal with whatever cards he is dealt.

"I don't think of anything in terms of most to lose. I just look forward to tomorrow's race, and whatever comes, comes.

"We have a great car in either condition, in the dry, and in the wet, so it'll be exciting."

FULL REPORT: Hamilton secures crucial pole by 0,102s from Rosberg

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.