The 2016 Formula One season has come to an end, and Nico Rosberg won his maiden title with his second-place finish in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday. Lewis Hamilton finished second in the driver's championship despite winning the last race of the season.
Rosberg and Hamilton were involved in a close fight till the last race, and the German finally won the title by five points. It was a remarkable performance from Rosberg to become the world champion, who was consistent throughout the season.
Now, let us look at some of the important things we learned over the course of the season.
Consistency is key
Rosberg started the 2016 F1 season on a bright note, winning the first four races of the season, which gave him a head start. Rosberg did not make many errors in the season, which helped him win nine races this season. He was so consistent that the driver clinched the title without winning any of the last four races. He was second five times this season, and it is such consistent podium finish, which played an important role in helping him become a world champion.
Max Verstappen has a great future ahead of him
Max Verstappen replaced Daniil Kvyat at Red Bull before the fifth race of the season, and the talented driver was amazing ever since. He is one of the exciting drivers in the circuit as he does not have that fear factor. Verstappen's driving skill is exceptional as he showed by winning the Spanish Grand Prix, becoming the youngest winner in F1 history. The commentators were in special awe throughout the season with his quality performances. His drive in the Brazilian GP, where he finished third in wet conditions, was lauded by all and sundry. Verstappen has all the ingredients of a potential future world champion.
How Hamilton lost the title?
Hamilton started the F1 2016 season as an overall favourite, after winning the world championship in 2014 and 2015. Call it unlucky or whatever, Hamilton did not start the campaign well, and also lost some important points due to engine failures in China, Russia, Europe, Singapore and Malaysia. Had engine problems not arose for Hamilton, the F1 drivers' title race could have been interesting.
Jenson Button, Felipe Massa retirement
Button and Massa have been regular in the Formula One for the last decade or so, but we will not see these experienced drivers racing in the circuit next season as they have announced their retirement. Button and Massa might not have lit the 2016 F1 season, collecting 21 and 53 points respectively for McLaren and Williams, but fans will thank the two for their contribution to Formula One.
Mercedes are too superior
With drivers like Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, with a powerful car, there could not have been any perfect marriage. The duo dominated the F1 season, and helped Mercedes collect maximum points in most of the races. Mercedes finished first with 765 points in the constructors' championship while second placed Red Bull scored 468. The difference is alarming, isn't it? Next season, other teams have to do something, whatever it takes, to challenge Mercedes.
