With his first Formula One world title up for grabs on Sunday, November 27, Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg is a picture of calm and concentration as he sits down to talk.
Speaking from Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Beach Club on Wednesday, November 23, where he attended a meet and greet as part of his ambassadorial duties for luxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen, the 31-year-old German explains he will approach the championship-deciding race at Yas Marina Circuit with his trademark preparation.
“It is the same feeling as going to a very important job interview. Is it a little bit more extreme? Well, maybe,” he laments. “But it essentially the same; the adrenalin, the apprehension and you are excited because it is a great opportunity.”
So does Rosberg indulge in any F1 driver superstitions before a big race, such as talking to his car. “I am a bit more pragmatic on that side,” he says, softly chuckling. “I do engage with my mechanics. It is a team effort and alone I can’t do anything.”
Whatever happens on Sunday, Rosberg says he is keen to enjoy his stay in the capital. “The organisers have done a great job here,” he adds. “Every year they have been building it up and now it has become a major highlight, especially with the music [acts] such as Rihanna coming here. More and more fans are coming each year — I just think it is a great event.”
While F1 fans are well aware of Rosberg's driving prowess, the reserved driver was happy to give The National some insight into what keeps him entertained away from the racetrack.
On the book shelf
It is all about personal development. I read Iacocca: An Autobiography by Lee Iacocca. It was about his time at as CEO of Chrysler, and how he put his salary down to one dollar a month (Dh3.67). Then there are also some books by Richard Branson. I basically read books for inspiration.
On the speakers
I have two playlists — one is dance music which I use to pump myself up. I did that yesterday when I was at the gym on the treadmill and will do it [again] before the race starts. I love Swedish House Mafia. I also love Spotify. I just put it on (the setting) Mood and I listen.
On the screen
I really enjoyed that film The Theory of Everything (2014). I have also the whole Rocky movie series at home. I watched those films again for the inspiration, the motivation and for the fighting spirit.
On the plate
I normally eat very specific stuff because the race car is not very easy on the stomach. So before a race I would eat a simple pasta with a very light cream sauce. It’s light and easy and keeps me focused.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix runs from November 25 to 27. For tickets to the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix click on www.yasmarinacircuit.com
sasaeed@thenational.ae
