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F1 Mexican GP: Rosberg composed as Mexico marks first ‘match point’

Nico Rosberg says he will maintain his tactic of staying entirely focused on his race weekend rather than allow himself to consider mathematical consequences ahead of a potentially pivotal Mexican Grand Prix this weekend.

Though beaten by Lewis Hamilton to victory in the United States Grand Prix - the first time the Briton has out-scored his team-mate since July's German Grand Prix -, Rosberg retains a comfortable 26 point margin in the overall standings with three races remaining.

It means Rosberg can mathematically clinch the 2016 Formula 1 world title at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit, provided he wins and Hamilton fails to finish.

Regardless, another solid performance for Rosberg in Mexico relative to his Mercedes counterpart could be crucial in ensuring it is the German driver who prevails for his maiden world title, even if he chooses not to view the weekend in those wider terms.

"[The title] is a childhood dream, but that is where it ends for me, the important thing for me this weekend is winning the Mexican Grand Prix. In terms of championship, it is not within my control you know if I get it this weekend. It is all about just winning the race and then we see what happens."

Having dominated last year's Mexican Grand Prix - the first at the overhauled circuit for 23 years -, Rosberg says he is pleased to be returning to a happy hunting ground in the context of the tense fight between himself and Hamilton.

"It is not something I think about too much really. I try and do my thing and get the best possible result. That is it. Of course it is intense. But at the same time there is an easy going side lately.

"It has been a great season so far, which has put me into this position. It is exciting to be in this championship battle now with Lewis towards the end of the season. We have been there before, but anyway it is very cool. But as I have said before my way of achieving the best possible performance is just to focus on the things that are within my control and that's here in Mexico and try and win the race and that is it."

Zdroj: crash.net