Rosberg a champion, but not among the greats - Ecclestone

Bernie Ecclestone believes Nico Rosberg will enjoy a place in Formula 1' history books but not among its greatest drivers.

Asked in an interview with Indian media whether he favourably compares with the likes of multi-world champions Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel or Fernando Alonso, F1's supremo didn't think so.

"Well, let’s just say he is a world champion," he told the Hindustan Times.

The other names that you mentioned (Hamilton, Vettel, Alonso) have obviously won more than a few times and have achieved more. So I would just call Nico a world champion and nothing else."

Ecclestone admitted the German driver's retirement was not a positive event for Formula 1.

"Okay, not as popular as Lewis but Nico was a very popular driver. So his absence is certainly not good for Formula 1."

Mister E wasn't able to offer any insight on who Mercedes could choose to replace Rosberg, although he joined the choir of voices hoping Fernando Alonso could somehow join the German team.

"A lot of people are linking Alonso with the Mercedes drive but I would like to wait and see what decision the team takes. He is a fine driver without a doubt."

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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.