Rosberg gives his two cents on Bottas

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Nico Rosberg chimed in for the first time since Valtteri Bottas' nomination as his replacement at Mercedes.

The 2016 world champion spoke during a Facebook live session at a presentation in Geneva for Mercedes AMG F1 partner IWC Schaffhausen watches.

"I think it's great news for the team, Rosberg said.

"I'm happy that they found a great solution quite quickly, that's awesome. I'm sure he's going to do a really, really good job and he'll blend in well."

But Rosberg warned the man who has filled his shoes that the task ahead will be monumental as it would be for any driver measuring himself against the likes of Lewis Hamilton.

"I'm going to be watching TV and I'm looking forward to seeing how Valtteri gets on, especially against Lewis because he is an awesome reference point.

"He's one of the best out there and one of the best of all time. It's not going to be easy for sure, so it's going to be interesting to follow."

Very cool @MercedesAMGF1 and @valteribottas I'm sure it will be a successful fit. Will follow the Lewis vs Valteri battle with interest

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.