Nico Rosberg described Lewis Hamilton's first Ferrari victory as "a legendary moment" in Formula 1 history. The former Mercedes rival was working for Sky Sports in Barcelona and witnessed the remarkable win firsthand.
Rosberg's Admission Despite Pre-Race Snub
Hamilton and Rosberg were childhood friends, but their relationship soured during their intense Mercedes rivalry a decade ago. That tension was evident just before Sunday's race when Rosberg was snubbed while attempting to interview his former teammate on the live Sky grid walk. Nevertheless, Rosberg set aside any lingering animosity to acknowledge Hamilton's convincing first win in red.
"We've witnessed a legendary moment of F1. It's historic for him, and it's a historic moment," the German said. "I think the whole of the F1 world, everybody appreciates this moment. There's nobody who does not appreciate this moment."
Praise from Rivals
Hamilton's rivals also lauded the 41-year-old's achievement. Fellow podium finishers George Russell and Lando Norris hailed his performance, with Norris particularly delighted to see Hamilton "stick the middle finger up" to his doubters. Even Max Verstappen called it a "super special moment," having congratulated his 2021 title rival privately.
Hamilton's win also marked the first time a team other than Mercedes has won a Grand Prix this year. Rosberg hopes this signals a competitive title fight between Hamilton's Ferrari and the Silver Arrows.
"He went through such an extremely tough start to the time at Ferrari. It's amazing how he's really managed to turn it around and climb to his greatness once again. It's awesome to witness. We all kind of want this to continue now, because we want him to take on the fight to the Mercedes guys. That would be awesome. The car is fast, so let's see if they can make it work," Rosberg said.
Wolff's Mixed Emotions
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who won six drivers' titles and eight consecutive constructors' championships with Hamilton, is less thrilled about facing his former driver. With Hamilton only 41 points off top spot after Kimi Antonelli's DNF in Barcelona, Wolff is keen to stop him from building momentum.
"I'd rather not fight with him for a title. Because I know what he's capable of. If he smells blood, he goes. I've seen it many years where suddenly the Lewis Hamilton train started to go and then it's very difficult to stop it. What is it, 41 points? You see a DNF robs you of 25 points and it's wide open," Wolff said.
Despite the rivalry, Wolff is happy to see a good friend succeed. "He's worked so hard and has gone through so many difficult moments, particularly last year, that wholeheartedly I'm happy for him that he's won. I always say, if it's not our two to win, then it should be Lewis," he added.
