Rosberg isn't suppressing title talk but refuses to look ahead; German says he is starting from scratch despite poor Austin record
Monday 24 October 2016 14:20, UK
Nico Rosberg says failing to convert his 33-point lead into a maiden world title hasn't crossed his mind as he continues to focus on one race at a time.
Lewis Hamilton heads into 2016's final four races as the championship outsider, and said in Thursday's press conference that he would take defeat "like a man" should his Mercedes team-mate continue his impressive form.
But Rosberg, who is looking for his first win at the US Grand Prix this weekend, refused to budge on a media stance that has served him well this season when asked the same question as Hamilton.
"I haven't thought of that because I'm planning to go for race wins at the moment," the German said. "Definitely, such negative thoughts I will fully avoid.
"That's not going to make me faster this weekend, to think 'how am I going to feel if I lose'."
Rosberg was reminded of his difficult record in Austin, including last year's race when a poor getaway and subsequent nudge off-track, as well as a mistake with just 10 laps remaining, gifted Hamilton a third world championship.
However, the 31-year-old is a much-changed man and driver this season, and seven of his nine victories have come at tracks where he had never previously won before.
"The car that I have I can win on any track against Lewis," he explained. "This weekend we're starting from scratch and we're prepared for a good battle.
"It's going to be difficult against him, he's going to be fully motivated. He's going to be at his best, I'm sure."
Keke Rosberg won the world championship 34 years ago and now his son is closing in on realising a lifelong dream, in the knowledge that he can afford to finish second in all of the remaining races and still claim the title.
"I will still try and push for the win," Nico insisted. "100 per cent, all the way, until the second flag"
Rosberg was also quizzed on just how he stays so calm in such circumstances, but denied that he was blanking out all talk of potential glory, adding: "I don't suppress it. Why should I? I just go for something else."
