Hamilton right to bet on Merc's 'long term' success

Nico Rosberg has fended off suggestions Lewis Hamilton is unwise to have decided to switch to Mercedes in 2013.

Some have questioned the 2008 world champion's move from a front-running McLaren to Mercedes, whose Michael Schumacher failed to score a point despite finishing the race in Abu Dhabi recently.

He is one of the best drivers available.

Nico Rosberg

Explaining the Brackley based team's slump, German Rosberg said: "We have changed the scale of our wind tunnel from 50 to 60 per cent.

"It's a very complicated job but we anticipate to be more competitive in 2013."

Asked if Hamilton's move from McLaren is surprising, he insisted: "Not at all. He is one of the best drivers available."

That, however, explains Mercedes' decision to pursue the highly rated Briton; not Hamilton's decision to flee established grandee McLaren.

Lewis Hamilton, McLaren

Photo by: xpb.cc

"He is thinking about the long-term," Rosberg said. "This is a strong team that is developing more and more and will certainly succeed eventually."

'Eventually' is the keyword -- Hamilton has already said he doubts he will win races next season.

"I think he's leaving space open for something spectacular," Rosberg smiled. "Anyway, I have learned not to comment on quotes that are reported by newspapers!"