Lewis's annus horribilis was down to a combination of factors including mind-set, team errors and on-track circumstances. Just how big a part each of the "ingredients" played is highly debatable. The fact is that bad shit is like a London bus, it can be a while between buses and then a heap arrives all at once. There are some drivers on the grid today who will look back on this season and actually pat themselves on the back if they simply match Hamilton's 2011 results.
Therein lies the rub and challenge for Nico. Whilst he can maintain his confidence and fighting talk, and if the team can avoid DNF's and other issues due to technical or tactical errors, he's well in the game. However, a run of coming in second to his team mate compounded by DNF's and/or poor results will punch it's way into his psyche. When that happens he will cop the "anus horribilis" crap as his championship challenge fades into distant memory.
How this will play out is one of the things that makes this season interesting. Whilst the Mercedes domination lasts the Nico vs Lewis battle provides spice up front - and Nico's fight back to 2nd last weekend was a part of that. Meanwhile, on the tech' front (if we get to hear about it) seeing how the rest catch up and come into play is fascinating. Not only that but as the others get their drivers into play they will inevitably interfere with the fortunes of the Merc' chaps. Then we will see how well both drivers cope with the concomitant adversity. Nico may be leading the championship but he can't afford the luxury of bad luck striking Hamilton because that cuts both ways. I think he will need to punch above his weight next time out because if/when he loses the championship lead it will get into his head and it will be all downhill from there.
On balance, there's not a lot between the two in terms of age and experience (although Rosberg has been in F1 a season longer) so it's a pretty fair fight. Thus far, I'm enjoying it play out and just hope that the battle continues in a good spirit.
