Mercedes head to the Monaco Grand Prix wary of the threat posed by Ferrari and Red Bull around the streets of Monte Carlo, with the latter appearing to be their nearest rival following Max Verstappen's Spanish victory.
Although Mercedes handed Red Bull an opportunity in Spain when both cars crashed out on the opening lap – a chapter Nico Rosberg insists is now firmly in the past – Red Bull still looked to be a threat, particularly in the final sector which is similar in nature to the Monaco circuit.
"I was gutted after what happened in Spain – for myself, but mostly for the team," said Rosberg. "We’re in this together and I know how hard everybody works to make these amazing cars, so for us to leave them both in the gravel is the worst possible scenario.
"But we’ve talked it through and now it’s time to leave it in the past."
Looking ahead to this weekend, the German is hopeful of a fourth victory in Monaco, but is wary of Mercedes' rivals springing a surprise.
"It’s one of my home races next in Monaco – the ultimate driver’s track," he said. "It’s where I grew up and where I still live today, so that always makes it a special weekend.
"I have memories from every corner going right back to my school days and I always have great support there from my family, my friends and the fans, which gives you that extra boost through the weekend.
"It’s been amazing to win there for the past three years – but I know it will be tough to repeat that with Lewis, the Ferraris and the Red Bulls all so strong now. I’m feeling confident, so bring on the battle!"
Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff is adamant the team can't slip up again like it did in Spain and has vowed to hit back hard.
"Once again, we have seen our competitors make steps forward which have given us an even bigger battle on our hands," said Wolff.
"Red Bull came out on top in Barcelona after a close fight with Ferrari, so it’s clear that we are under attack from more than one angle. We cannot afford to drop the ball, so we must remain united, remain strong and hit back hard this weekend."
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