Rosberg's trainer: 'It all happened so suddenly'

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For many seasons, Daniel Schlosser was perhaps Nico Rosberg's closest friend and ally, as his personal trainer and confidant.

But when the freshly crowned world champion and Mercedes driver announced his retirement in Vienna, 'Big Dan' was just as shocked as everyone.

"For me, everything came very suddenly," Schlosser told Germany's Bild newspaper.

"I'm exploring my options because I would be very happy to stay at Mercedes, and I would also like to work in my hometown of Cologne or cooperate with another driver or sportsman."

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While the trainer ponders his future he did rule out working for the man who lived on the other side of the Mercedes garage, Lewis Hamilton.

"Thats' out of the question," said Schlosser.

"He is perfectly happy with his physiotherapist, as far as I know. And we have been in competition for so long that it would be hard for me."

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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.