F1: Rosberg says his 2014 weaknesses are solved

Nico Rosberg believes his recent grand prix victories prove he has conquered the race-pace shortcomings that contributed to Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton beating him to the 2014 Formula 1 title.

Although Rosberg had the superior qualifying record last year, with 11 poles to Hamilton's seven, in the races their form was reversed, Hamilton taking 11 victories and Rosberg just five. With three wins from the last four grands prix, including this weekend's Austrian event, Rosberg believes his Sunday troubles are now sorted.

"I had a good start and then good pace in the race; that is what I'm most happy about," said Rosberg, who jumped polesitter Hamilton off the line at the Red Bull Ring then controlled the race. I think I have found what I needed to find last year in terms of in the races and that's what is really working out for me this year."

Rosberg expressed concern over the radio about a vibration in the closing stages of the race but said it was not as severe as he had feared.

"It was just vibrations picking up on the right front," he said. "I was just telling them to keep an eye on it but it was fine in the end, it just came from tire wear."

Hamilton was trailing Rosberg even before picking up a five-second time penalty for crossing the pitlane exit line following his sole stop, a punishment he was dubious about.

"I don't think I went over anything, to be honest," said Hamilton.

He also suspected a technical issue contributed to him losing the lead at the start.

"I had a problem with the revs," he said. "I took my foot off the gas and the throttle was still on.

"It was not the best way to start the race but it is something we will work on to improve on my side of the garage."

The Austrian GP result leaves Hamilton with a 10-point advantage over Rosberg in the world championship.

Originally on Autosport.com