Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton could be said as the fiercest rivalry among the two teammates in the modern F1 era. The turbo-hybrid era was a game-changer for Mercedes as they dominated F1 for the remainder of that decade.
However, having two superstars was the biggest obstacle to Mercedes’ prolonged success. Rosberg and Hamilton were constantly in conflict, and with every passing day, it was becoming difficult for Mercedes to control the duo.
Their relationship was ruined to such an extent that the former best friends don’t even see eye to eye each other now, even after six years to the end of their rivalry.
Also read: Lewis Hamilton would rather have pain in his neck than be with former Mercedes rival
Nico Rosberg still angry at Lewis Hamilton
During the 2015 US Grand Prix, the German race driver was immensely furious with Hamilton. Because starting from the pole, he was shoved by his teammate behind him at turn 1.
Though, Rosberg managed to overcome that hiccup and was leading the race until the last 10 laps when at turn 13, he went wide, allowing Hamilton to go ahead again. This win also cemented Hamilton’s third world title.
Rosberg blamed a big gush of wind responsible for him going wide. While the turn 1 incident no more had a direct correlation with his loss. He was still angry with Hamilton and violently threw a cap at Hamilton.
Nico Rosberg throws his cap at Lewis Hamilton following US Grand Prix pic.twitter.com/wT05LCwbO3
— Sky News (@SkyNews) October 26, 2015
Now recently, F1’s official page reposted this video. In response, a fan commented: “Hamilton pushing his rival off at COTA turn 1, what a classic.” Propelling the German race driver to reply with angry emojis.
A strong comeback
This cap-throwing incident marked the start of good times for Rosberg. He went on to win the last three races of the season, which only hinted at the coming of his peak.
In the following year, Rosberg was a better version of himself and went on to win the championship, breaking his teammate’s absolute dominance in F1 and showcasing Hamilton could be defeated for the championship in the same car.
However, Rosberg ended his career only a few days later to his title victory. Thus, a brilliant rivalry remained short-lived when two brilliant F1 drivers were at their peak.
Also read: Lewis Hamilton pinpoints when his relations with Nico Rosberg were ruined forever