Nico Rosberg has agreed a “multi-year contract extension” to remain with the Mercedes Formula 1 team until at least 2016 with further options, the team confirmed on Wednesday.
The German currently leads the world championship standings by four points to team-mate Lewis Hamilton.
It had been rumoured that Mercedes would look to replace Rosberg, in an effort to retain Hamilton as the pair’s relationship has soured recently this year, but the agreement will see them together for at least another season as the Briton is under contract for 2015.
Speaking about the deal, Rosberg said: “I am very proud to drive the Formula One Silver Arrow of the modern era. As a German, the heritage of Mercedes-Benz is very special for me, and I am proud to be able to represent the best car brand around the world.
“It has been a difficult road to get to where we are now – but everybody kept believing and, thanks to the fantastic support from Mercedes-Benz, we are now leading the way in F1.
“There has been big progress during the past year, building up our structure, management and capability for the future. We have an awesome team and I am confident that we have the right people in place at every level. I’m looking forward to the next years together, when we will keep pushing to win even more races – and, hopefully, championships.”
Head of Mercedes motorsport Toto Wolff welcomed the deal and believes it will bring stability to the team.
“With his performances in 2014, Nico has demonstrated to the outside world what we knew already in the team: that he is one of the very top drivers in Formula One. This new contract brings us important stability and continuity for the future and I am delighted to be able to make the announcement in time for the home race of Mercedes-Benz and Nico in Hockenheim.”
