Rosberg: "Would be great if Red Bull gets away and Mercedes have to chase them"

Former Mercedes driver and world champion Nico Rosberg believes Max Verstappen is closer than ever to be able to beat Hamilton and hopes to see Red Bull Racing challenging Mercedes at the Bahrain Grand Prix .

During a Sky Sports broadcast with reporters Johnny Herbert, David Croft and Simon Lazenby Rosberg said: "Hands up if you want to see the nose of the Red Bull in front of the Mercedes in the first race of the season," Rosberg immediately put his hand up and was cautiously followed by Herbert.

Rosberg hopes for a duel between Verstappen and Hamilton

"For the sport, it would be the greatest thing ever if Red Bull gets away and Mercedes have to chase them," Rosberg continued. Asked if he has put any money on Verstappen as the winner of the Bahrain Grand Prix, he replied, "Absolutely!"