• Mercedes

Rosberg agrees to contract extension

Nico Rosberg has extended his stay with Mercedes after signing a "multi-year extension" with the team.

Rosberg joined Mercedes when it returned to the sport in 2010 and currently leads team-mate Lewis Hamilton by four points in the drivers' standings. Rosberg claimed his maiden win in 2012, which was also the first for Mercedes since its F1 return, and has since added five more to his name, with the promise of future success a key factor behind the new deal for the German.

"I am very proud to drive the Formula One Silver Arrow of the modern era," Rosberg said. "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."

The deal ends any speculation Mercedes is planning a swoop for Fernando Alonso, a rumour which started earlier this season after quotes from Mercedes-Benz Motorsport boss Toto Wolff.

Speaking on the Rosberg deal, Wolff added: "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."

What a week!! I got married, Germany won and I signed a new contract with mercedes! Just need to win my home GP now;) pic.twitter.com/2JZFaBLUJ1— Nico Rosberg (@nico_rosberg) July 16, 2014

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