Nico Rosberg: I would be very hurt in Russell's place.

      On the 66th lap of the Dutch Grand Prix, George Russell let Kimi Antonelli pass, following team orders. 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg understands why Mercedes made that decision but is sure it was very painful for the British driver.

      Nico Rosberg: "At that moment, it was assumed that George would be significantly slower, and the Ferrari drivers could threaten not only him but also Kimi if he got stuck behind his teammate after the pit stop. It meant the team was risking two positions at once.

      The situation was very complicated. They had to make a truly terrible decision, and I wouldn't want to be in the team's position. And if I were in George's place, it would hurt a lot. For him, it could have been a real disaster.

      At the same time, the team's decision can be understood because I know the rules of Mercedes very well. They must be followed by everyone. At that moment, it was fair – if the team's result is at risk, both drivers must act in its interest.

      In my time, I also had to let Lewis pass in Monaco, even though we were fighting for the title. There was a similar situation in Zandvoort – the two Ferrari drivers behind threatened the team's result, so Mercedes had to use team tactics, and the drivers had to follow the order.

      I think it was fair, and then George did an excellent job of holding onto third place."