Lorenzo hopes Rosberg wins 2016 title

MotoGP star Jorge Lorenzo insists Nico Rosberg would be a deserving champion if crowned later on Sunday in Abu Dhabi.

The Spaniard is in the paddock this weekend, telling the Movistar broadcaster that "I wanted to see who will win the championship". He is sponsored by Monster, who also back the Mercedes team.

As for that Rosberg vs Lewis Hamilton battle, Lorenzo admits that he is closer to world champion Lewis Hamilton.

"He seems like a very nice guy," he said. "He is explosive and quick, but Nico has also shown his strength this year and this is his big chance to be champion.

"I hope he succeeds because he deserves it," Lorenzo added.

Mercedes was reportedly impressed when Lorenzo recently tested the team’s 2014 car, but he played down the possibility he might switch from four wheels to two full time.

"It is not like 30 or 40 years ago with (John) Surtees," the 29-year-old smiled.

"Before there was more in common and now with so much technology to catch up with the level of these drivers would be virtually impossible — but in life there are not many impossible things," Lorenzo said.