Nico Rosberg has quit Formula 1 on Friday, just five days after winning the world title for Mercedes in a move that stunned motor racing. The 31-year-old veteran, who beat team mate Lewis Hamilton in the finale for the 2016 season, is the first reigning champion to quit since Alain Prost in 1993. Rosberg made the bombshell revelation in Vienna ahead of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) annual awards ceremony.
'I didn't know if I had the balls'
"I have decided to end my Formula One career here," said Rosberg, who claimed the title at the 2016 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 27 when he finished second behind Hamilton. He said he made the decision in the aftermath of his championship triumph: "It was a process on Monday. I didn't know if I had the balls, and I took a bit of time.
"But I am done. End of story, and the next step is being a dad and a husband and I am very much looking forward to that."
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff said: "For the team this is an unexpected situation and an exciting one. This is a brave decision by Nico and testament to the strength of his character.
"He has chosen to leave at the pinnacle of his career, as world champion, having achieved his childhood dream."
Wolff said Rosberg's "relentless" drive and "inspirational way" of fighting adversity, mixed with his "tenacity and grace under pressure" had earned him "the respect of the sport".
Rosberg posted a message to his fans on social media, saying "I have a message for you".
"Since 25 years in racing it has been my dream, my 'one thing' to become Formula One World Champion. Through the hard work, the pain, the sacrifices, this has been my target.
"And now I've made it. I have climbed the mountain, I am on the peak, so this feels right."
bowing out while the ovation is highest is a smart move
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