Hamilton not surprised by Rosberg exit

Lewis Hamilton says he is not surprised that Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg is quitting Formula One after beating him for the world title.

“I’m probably one of the only people that it was not a surprise to,” Hamilton said.

“But that’s because I’ve known him for a long time. This is the first time he’s won (in their rivalry) in 18 years, hence why it was not a surprise that he decided to stop.”

The two have been competing against each other since their karting days and at Mercedes, Hamilton won the 2014 and 2015 world titles before Rosberg turned the tide this year in an at times bitter rivalry between the former friends.

“But he’s also got a family to focus on, having children, and Formula 1 takes so much of your time,” Hamilton added.

“It’s going to be very very strange, and it will be sad not to have him in the team next year. The sport will miss him, and I wish him all the best.”

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