Rosberg: will it be Mercedes or Ferrari?

Newly retired world champion Nico Rosberg is currently just enjoying his family and life, relieved of being from the high boost pressures of Formula 1.

The German was spotted on social media this week apparently refuelling a 'LaFerrari' supercar, something which fueled allegations that he was going to ditch the Mercedes brand altogether.

But there was a perfectly simple explanation for the stolen pic, as Rosbergt explained to Germany's Auto Bild.

"That is indeed me in the photo, but unfortunately the car belongs to a buddy who was paying for fuel."

Sport Bild also reported that Rosberg is likely to remain a Mercedes brand ambassador in 2017, when he will officially be the sport's reigning world champion.

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.