Rosberg: 'Bottas asked to sit down with me'

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Retired world champion Nico Rosberg said that he will gladly sit down with Valtteri Bottas, but would resist answering any questions about Lewis Hamilton's weaknesses.

Rosberg, who remains a Mercedes ambassador, said that he will certainly attend a few races this season, although he would not get involved in any technical input discussions with his former team.

"I will of course continue to follow developments and I'm looking forward to seeing the new car and will definitely be at the track for five or six races," said the German.

"I will continue to work with the sponsors."

Rosberg couldn't have been champion without us - Lauda

Rosberg revealed that his replacement at the Silver Arrows squad had called him up and sought out his advice.

"Yes, Valtteri asked to sit down with me," Rosberg admitted.

"I am happy to do that, but I will not give him any tips or give away Lewis' secrets, although of course I know him very well. I will remain neutral."

Despite new regulations forcing teams to start from a blank sheet of paper, Rosberg believes Mercedes will retain its competitive edge, though Red Bull and Ferrari will probably be more than ever rivals to contend with.

"We are simply the best team and have the best chance. But Red Bull and Ferrari can never be underestimated.

"I'm still a huge fan of our sport and I'm already excited about the first tests," said 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.