Formula 1: Rosberg – forthright in Bahrain, but…..

Despite what Lewis Hamilton fans think, Formula 1, in its current format, needs Rosberg. A pair of spectacles is not required to visualize the frightening pace of Mercedes AMG’s machine. What father tomato said to baby tomato as they walked to the market – Ketchup (catch up)! – is the daily burden other teams carry as they seek to mount a realistic challenge to the merciless anvil that the Merc wields.

It is evident that Rosberg was not prepared for the Lewis Hamilton armada that blitzed the F1 universe in 2014. Rosberg’s armor was dismantled and his shortcomings laid bare for everyone to see. To say he adopted egg-like qualities and cracked under pressure would be an accurate assessment of his 2014 season!

Hamilton

But, each day brings a fresh start and we were hoping that a more purposeful Rosberg would resurface in 2015. We possibly underestimated Lewis Hamilton. The reigning World Champion, according to David Coulthard, has a new aura. I would argue that, that stance appears when an individual has risen above all that ails him and his confidence in his ability allows him to think, believe and know that he is superior to all the drivers around him! The World Champion was ready for battle though and despite a minor hiccup which allowed Ferrari to steal a minute bone, the buffet is still in the Merc’s hospitality quarters!

Rosberg, based on his attitude and comments prior to Bahrain, confirmed that he was still a shadow of himself!! The Wolff had a chat with the drivers after their mini verbal fracas and apparently it worked. In Bahrain, Hamilton kept his head high and dropped the hammer – P1! Rosberg followed father tomato’s advice- ‘ketchup’! The Ferrari squad heard the message and stayed close.

When the red lights completed their disappearing act, the machines erupted towards corner 1 and a miracle unfolded. Vettel and Kimi, propelled by prayers from the Tifosi, created a wedge between the Mercs and stole P2 and P3! The second miracle unfolded shortly after.

Inspiration and determination met and they attacked Rosberg! Rosberg responded by honoring the terms of his contract. He delivered a valiant, forthright and refreshing session of driving in Bahrain. He drove the wheels off his Merc. He maimed Ferrari’s challenge and was well on his way to secure a coveted 1-2, but fate intervened.

Rosberg ran wide while being harassed by Kimi and memories of 2014 appeared unannounced! Thankfully, it was revealed that the machine had a brake-fade issue. Kimi was grateful for Rosberg’s misfortune and he drove to the champagne counter – P2.

I must admit that I found Rosberg’s drive entertaining and I sincerely hope that he will bring a continuous, bruising, fight to Hamilton. We deserve to see him at his best and as such demanding the best from Hamilton. He fought a Showtime-type bout in Bahrain, but, he is still chasing Hamilton. I would love to see more of this type of resilience from Rosberg. Should Hamilton be worried ?

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer