The last thing an F1 fan would expect from a world champion is for him to retire early. However, that's exactly what Nico Rosberg did.
Just five days after stealing the F1 Drivers Championship right under Lewis Hamilton's nose, the German suddenly decided to hang up his helmet and walk away from the sport. The announcement definitely surprised many in the F1 community.
BBC Sport revealed that Rosberg's wait for a maiden title was the second longest in history, behind only Nigel Mansell's 12-year wait. Rosberg was thankful to everyone who helped him reach his "peak", but it was time for him to drive into the sunset.
"For 25 years in racing, it has been my dream, my 'one thing' to become Formula 1 champion," he explained. "Through the hard work, the pain, the sacrifices, this has been my target. And now I have made it. I have climbed my mountain, I am on the peak, so this feels right."
SkySports reports that Hamilton, who has known Rosberg since they were teenagers, was not surprised by his teammate and rival's decision to walk away. In the same FIA prizegiving gala where Rosberg announced his retirement, Hamilton explained his understanding of the German's decision.
"This is the first time in he's won in 18 years, hence why it was not a surprise that he decided to stop," he said. "He's also got a family to focus on, and wants more children, and Formula 1 takes so much of your time."
He admits that it will be a bit awkward when Rosberg is absent by the time the season starts once more: "Will I miss the rivalry? Of course."
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff was the polar opposite of Hamilton, reacting just like the rest of the F1 community. However, he respects the decision and is more than happy to send his driver off.
"This is a brave decision by Nico and a testament to the strength of his character," he said. "The clarity of his judgement meant I accepted his decision straight away when he told me. We now have to consider options and we will start to look at it on Monday."
Rosberg raced a total of 206 grands prix, winning 23 and finishing on the podium 57 times. He joins Felipe Massa and Jenson Button among this year's retiring class.
