Agostini questions Rosberg ’passion’

Giacomo Agostini, arguably the greatest motorcycle racing legend of all time, says he cannot understand new F1 champion Nico Rosberg’s decision to quit.

The Italian, who switched to non-championship F1 after his glittering moto career ended in the 70s, was asked by La Gazzetta dello Sport to comment on 31-year-old Rosberg’s decision to call it a day as reigning champion.

"I don’t understand it," Agostini, 74, admitted.

"I wonder if he had a great passion or just wanted to win a title. It takes some courage to give up many millions, but I also think of (footballer Francesco) Totti who is 40 and not stopping.

"When I retired, I cried for three days," he added.

"Nico did a little of what (Casey) Stoner did, when you see someone who has the gift to be a Michaelangelo and throws it away," said Agostini.

When faced with criticisms of his retirement decision, Rosberg told the French language AFP news agency: "People who criticise? I say let everyone choose their own way.

"From my point of view, I had a very nice time, I got what I wanted, I succeeded. Now I have much to look forward to, like spending more time with my daughter," he added.

Asked how many children he would like to have, Rosberg answered: "I hope to have more if the opportunity arises — a football team!

"My wife Vivian is not convinced of this idea yet," he smiled.