Two-time champion Mika Hakkinen believes Nico Rosberg has finally risen to the challenge of becoming a Formula 1 world champion, and reckons 2016 could be his year.
Rosberg currently sits 36 points ahead of his nearest title rival in the form of team-mate and three-time champion Lewis Hamilton, thanks to three back-to-back victories in the opening three races of the season.
Whilst that gap isn't impossible to close with 18 races remaining and 450 points up for grabs, no driver has ever lost the championship having won the first three races of a season.
Hakkinen says Rosberg has always had the talent to win a championship, but now he has the mental ability too.
"I remember how he walked around as a four or five year-old with a small helmet in his hand," Hakkinen told Spox. "When I see him now, I'm very proud of him. He has developed fantastically. He has became a man and a father with the responsibility of a family.
"What many people underestimate: The path to being world class is incredibly long, arduous and painful. The emphasis is on pain. Since it does not matter if your own father himself was world champion or not. Although he has his friends and family on the side, at the end you are still alone, with an immense burden, especially mentally, to cope.
"The physique and talent were always there," he added. "Now he has the goal clearly in mind and says with conviction: "Yes, I want to become world champion!" He has risen to the challenge. Therefore my answer is: Yes, he is ready for the world title."
