Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMercedes

Brake issue deprives Rosberg of second

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Nico Rosberg put in an entertaining and aggressive drive in today's Grand Prix of Bahrain, and one which should have brought the Mercedes driver a second place finish but for a brake-by-wire issue two laps from the end.

The German appeared well inspired all evening, stepping up the level of his driving this weekend, and getting the upper hand over the Ferraris after a poor start, but still falling short of being able to challenge his team mate Lewis Hamilton.

"I really like the car today and told the guys right after the start that it really felt good. So I went for it, and I had to of course because I was fourth and had to get past the red cars to try to chase down Lewis. Tried my best but in spite of a similar pace, it just wasn't possible."I

Rosberg was adamant that without the brake issue which unexpectedly appeared at the very tail end of the race he would have kept Räikkonen's Ferrari at bay.

"It was disappointing to lose second place two laps from the end but the pedal just went straight down without any resistance," commented the German. "Without that problem I could have held Kimi off for sure because his tyres were quite destroyed at that point. Other than that it was quite an enjoyable race, and very exciting in the beginning to be able to pass the red cars which gave me particular pleasure."

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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.