Nico Rosberg: Talk of Max Verstappen retiring started after “intense” Lewis Hamilton F1 title duel

2016 world champion Nico Rosberg believes the “intense” title battle in 2021 with Lewis Hamilton made Max Verstappen question his long-term future in F1.
(L to R): Lewis Hamilton (GBR) Mercedes AMG F1 and Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing in the post qualifying FIA Press
(L to R): Lewis Hamilton (GBR) Mercedes AMG F1 and Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing in the…

Hamilton and Verstappen went head-to-head fo❀r the 2021 title, with the Dutchman coming out on top.

The season ultimately w🌺ent down 🐽as one of F1’s best as the title was decided on the final lap in Abu Dhabi.

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The pair ꦦhad a n💦umber of incredible on-track battles, even colliding on several occasions.

In recent months, Verstappen has stated he doesn’t wan𝓡t to continue racing in F1 until his 40s, suggesting he might call time on his career at the end of his current dea﷽l which expires in 2028.

“That talk from him [possibly retiring] started in the year when he battled Hamilton,” Rosberg told Sky Sports.

“Where he said ‘I won’t go on for very long if every year is like that’. Those battles are so fierce a🦂nd intense, it takes a lot of the fun away as well.

“The sport w✃ill always be an intense environment, especially when you are fighting for championships every year.

Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing RB19 makes a pit stop. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 8, Spanish Grand Prix,
Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing RB19 makes a pit stop. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 8…

“You are the guy who has it all to lose.ও Every expectation is you are going to win over and over, it’s quite demanding.

“I can’t put myself in his shoes. Money-wise he’s done, he has so much he won’🐽t have to work again or worry again. Record-wise he’s already one of the best of all time by the end of this year.”

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