Isn’t it ironic that as soon as things go right for Michael Schumacher, things go wrong for Nico Rosberg?

The two put in sterling displays as Mercedes were comfortably ‘the best of the rest’ at Suzuka, but an uncharacteristic reliability failure from a Mercedes car ended what would have been a terrific double-points scoring result for the team.

What’s more, Rosberg would have leapfrogged Felipe Massa into sixth place in the drivers’ standings had his wheel not detached itself from his car, leaving him in the barrier with the end in sight.

It would have been nothing more than what the 25-year-old deserved after another superb performance. Despite falling to the back early on, a brave tyre-call catapulted him up the field and he was able to deal with his team-mates attempts to pass him quite comfortably.

As for Schumacher, he certainly delivered. A superb start and a brilliant overtake of Rubens Barrichello were the highlights on his most impressive outing this year.

He proved the talent is still hidden inside the ageing 41-year-old, albeit at one of his best tracks.

Still, anyone who can match Rosberg in the same vehicle can’t be called poor.

Rosberg is one of many talented youngsters who ensure a healthy future for the sport. All he needs now is the right car so he can prove to the world he is every bit as good as Sebastian Vettel.

The mechanics who attended the race once again showed their skills by getting the most out of the car that didn’t receive any new upgrades. Imagine what they’ll be able to do with a competitive package next year?

The only concern to the Brackley-based team was the accident suffered in the closing stages by their lead driver. Mercedes have said they are launching a full investigation into the incident.

But it was a weekend for a positive outlook. Mercedes consolidated their position as the fourth-best car on the grid and both drivers demonstrated their abilities well.

Schumacher has shown the world he does still belong in the world of F1. Whether the quietened-critics remain that way after the inaugural Korean grand prix in two week’s time remains to be seen.

Rosberg remains one of the brightest prospects in the motorsport world.

Mercedes have the team, the drivers and the mechanics to challenge for titles. Now all they need is the right car. Engineers, it’s over to you…

Related posts: