Q: Gerhard, it was a true eye-opener when we heard you were representing Nico Rosberg in his negotiations with Mercedes. How did that all come about?

Gerhard Berger: It was pretty simple: I have known Nico since he was a little boy, as I raced against his dad Keke for years. Last week both contacted me to see if I could do them a favour and negotiate Nico's new contract, as he wants to fully concentrate on the championship. I said, 'Of course!' It's kind of a friendly turn.

Q: So none of the usual 15 percent manager fees?

GB: Money doesn't play a paramount role, no. It is just about giving a helping hand.

Q: You always negotiated for yourself back when you were a driver, and are known to be something of a 'rascal'. Is that what is needed in negotiations with Mercedes?

GB: Ha, not this time. I think everybody understands the others' position: Mercedes wants to keep Nico and Nico wants to stay with Mercedes. But, of course, there has to be a firm view in the details - a rigid setting of the scene. To be honest it would really surprise me if we also started to negotiate with another team. But you never know. Clearly Mercedes is the first address for us.

Q: You have good contacts with Ferrari though. Could that become more of a factor if negotiations with Mercedes go awry?

GB: I don't want to think that far ahead as I would find it bit ridiculous... if a drivers is happy in a team, and vice versa, you hammer a new deal at all costs.