04/06/2014
NEWS STORY
Mercedes Non-Executive Chairman, Niki Lauda admits that managing alpha males Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg isn't easy.
Though the relationship between the pair appeared to hit rock bottom in Monaco, a few days later Hamilton claimed he was still friends with the German who he has known since his early teens.
However, as the battle for the title resumes many believe that it is only a matter of time before the in-fighting begins again.
Lauda, however, a three-time world champion and one of the wiliest men in the sport, admits that whilst managing the feuding duo is difficult, it is what is to be expected and is good for the sport.
"Lewis has now accepted Nico won in Monaco and he was second, which is really no shame," he said, ahead of this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, the seventh round of the season.
"In Montreal we will get together again and discuss everything," he continued. "After that the fight will go on for the world championship, with both in equal cars.
"But with two alphas currently sitting in the best car it is tricky," he admitted, "although given our superiority that in turn makes the races interesting. But we will let our drivers race against each other without restriction because whilst tension is quite normal, it can also escalate. Then I get involved as a mentor.
"Nico was faster in Monte Carlo, but now Lewis will do everything he can to fight back. It is a strain on our nerves, but for the fans and the sport there is nothing better."
Chris Balfe