Rosberg Applauds Hamilton's Historic Ferrari Victory in Barcelona

Nico Rosberg has heaped praise on Lewis Hamilton following his first Grand Prix victory for Ferrari at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit. Describing it as a 'legendary moment' for the sport, Rosberg acknowledged the significance of his former teammate's achievement, noting that Hamilton has 'climbed to greatness again.'

Hamilton's move to Ferrari in 2025 was a headline-grabbing switch after his long tenure with Mercedes, where he shared a garage with Rosberg for several years. Yet, his inaugural season with the Scuderia was anything but straightforward. Apart from a Sprint victory in China, Hamilton struggled to find his rhythm, enduring a season without a single Grand Prix podium, peppered with self-reflective critiques following some Q1 exits and races without points.

However, with a fresh start over the winter, Ferrari's efforts to make Hamilton feel at home, and the introduction of new regulations for 2026, the seven-time World Champion seems to have regained his formidable form. Recent P2 finishes in Canada and Monaco set the stage for his impressive performance in Barcelona. There, he secured a front-row start with a stellar Q3 lap and outmaneuvered his two-stopping Mercedes rivals with an aggressive three-stop strategy to clinch the victory.

Rosberg, speaking from the paddock after interviewing Hamilton in Parc Ferme, reflected on the race's significance. "We've witnessed a legendary moment of F1," he said. "It's historic for him, and it's a historic moment for the sport."

Rosberg expressed admiration for Hamilton's perseverance through a tough start at Ferrari. "It’s amazing how he’s turned it around," he continued, suggesting that the entire F1 community appreciates this comeback. "We all want him to continue this momentum and challenge the Mercedes team. The car is fast, so let's see if they can make it work."

Hamilton's win reduces the points gap to championship leader Kimi Antonelli from 66 to 41, especially after Antonelli's late retirement in the race. When asked about Hamilton and Ferrari's prospects for the rest of the 2026 season, Rosberg was optimistic, asserting they should indeed dream of more victories.

On _Sky Sports F1_, Rosberg noted that Ferrari's substantial upgrade package in Barcelona has been a turning point. "You get positive results, you get more motivated, you work harder," he said, highlighting the momentum building within the team. "All these ducks are falling into place at the moment, and that’s what it takes to win races in F1."

The team's improvements, including eight new car parts, coupled with Hamilton's mental fortitude and his edge over teammate Charles Leclerc, seem to have created a perfect storm for success. As Rosberg put it, "It’s all coming together, which is amazing."