Nico Rosberg admits he couldn't bring himself to tell Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff of his decision to retire from Formula 1 in person, and had to do it by phone, which was still "massively difficult".
The 2016 F1 champion only decided to retire the day after winning the title in Abu Dhabi and only told his boss on the Tuesday, as the paid had sponsor commitments to fulfil on the Monday in Malaysia with Petronas.
Although aware of his decision at that time, Rosberg revealed it wasn't until he was alone that he could share the news with Wolff by telephone.
"It was massively difficult," said Rosberg. "I couldn't tell him in person. I had to call him. It was massively intense especially after three hours of sleep [on Sunday night]."
Rosberg also confirmed he spoke to team-mate Lewis Hamilton before announcing his decision publically, as he felt it was the right thing to do, considering the pair have grown-up together and been fierce on-track competitiors since they were children.
"I informed Lewis myself before this [announcement], it is the right way to do it," he added.
"We had so many battles and so many moments so I thought correct to let him know of my decision and especially in light of his post [on social media] yesterday, which was kind of him.
"Maybe we can have a discussion tonight."
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