Lewis Hamilton Admits Things With Nico Rosberg Will Never be Perfect
A year of simmering tensions came to a head at both the Japanese and United States Grands Prix when Nico Rosberg felt Lewis Hamilton had been too aggressive while passing him at the start of the races.
Reigning Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton believes his relationship with Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg will "never be perfect" but both remain fully committed to the team. (US Grand Prix: Nico Rosberg Blasts Lewis Hamilton Over 'Aggressive' Driving)
Hamilton won his third title in 2015 as he and Rosberg combined for 12 one-two finishes over 19 races, but the year was soured by clashes between the two.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has warned he could replace one of the drivers if their relationship damages the team.
"It is never going to be all fine and dandy," Hamilton was quoted as saying by BBC on Friday, when asked about his relationship with Rosberg. (Nico Rosberg Seeks Talks With Champion Lewis Hamilton)
The 30-year-old added that Mercedes "can't really complain" about the results they are delivering.
"It is never going to be perfect. But we have a winning formula. We always get a one-two when the car is ready to give a one-two," he said.
A year of simmering tensions came to a head at both the Japanese and United States Grands Prix when Rosberg felt Hamilton had been too aggressive while passing him at the start of the races.
After his win in US, which secured him his third world title, Hamilton tossed Rosberg the cap he had to wear on the podium only for his teammate to throw it straight back at him.
"The team hired myself and Nico to do a job. We have done exactly that. We are racing and competing against each other. It is not a family game. It is not a fun event. We are both committed to Mercedes for the long run," Hamilton concluded.