The retiring Nico Rosberg has been officially crowned 2016 Formula 1 champion during the FIA prize giving gala in Vienna, Austria, on Friday night.
The German driver secured the title in Abu Dhabi last Sunday, after finishing in second place behind race winner, team-mate and championship rival Lewis Hamilton.
But on Friday Rosberg announced he is retiring from F1 with immediate effect, having achieved his childhood goal of winning the title.
It brings to an end an 11-season career in F1, which started at Williams in 2006 before he switched to Mercedes for 2010.
“This year was extremely tough because I put absolutely everything into it; I pushed like crazy in all directions,” Rosberg said on the season and his decision.
“I've achieved this childhood dream now and I'm not willing to do that sort of commitment again.
“I've decided to follow my heart and my heart has told me to stop and go on to other things – it's been wonderful, but it just feels right.”
Hamilton and Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo were also in attendance to pick up their trophies for second and third.
Discussion about this post