Rosberg makes 'hunger' claim following Hamilton Ferrari move

Nico Rosberg believes Lewis Hamilton's switch to Ferrari shows "the hunger" the Briton has to continue to "grow."

After 12 successful seasons at Mercedes, Hamilton departed at the end of 2024 for a multi-year deal with Ferrari to partner Charles Leclerc. 

Hamilton is determined to win an eighth world championship title and break the record he jointly holds with Michael Schumacher, but cut a frustrated figure in his final season at Mercedes. 

However, Rosberg, his former title rival team-mate, believes the Maranello move could give Hamilton the boost he requires.

"Lewis is driven by a deep love for the sport and a desire to keep pushing his limits," Rosberg told Gazzetta dello Sport. 

"A change like the one he faces this year can reignite passion.

"Lewis is already a legend, he would have nothing to prove, but his choice shows the hunger of a man who wants to continue to grow, both as a driver and as a person."

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Rosberg talks Hamilton

Hamilton is now 40 years old, more than twice the age of some of the six rookies he will face in 2025.

For Rosberg, he sees the challenge Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso, face as a motivating factor. 

"For me, they would be a motivation," he said of the six rookies, including 18-year-old Hamilton Mercedes replacement Andrea Kimi Antonelli. 

"When you see the young guys pushing to the limit then you are forced to stay focused and improve every day. 

"I had two of the greatest drivers ever as teammates - Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton - and I loved that level of challenge, it was what motivated me.

"These drivers are incredibly prepared and hungry for success, it was only a matter of time before we saw a change coming from the minor series. 

"The timing is perfect because 2025 will be an adjustment year before the new regulations in 2026, when at that point the youngsters will be prepared and ready to attack."