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Former Formula 1 world champion Keke Rosberg, father of Nico Rosberg, has suggested Max Verstappen needs more guidance to cut out mistakes.

Verstappen spun at the first corner in Abu Dhabi's season finale after hitting the sidepod of Nico Hulkenberg's Force India, dropping to last before recovering to finish fourth.

Keke Rosberg stayed away from F1 title decider

While Nico Rosberg did spend time stuck behind Verstappen, who jumped back up to second by lap 10 thanks to running a 21-lap stint on super-softs, the Red Bull driver's spin did compromise his race.

"He sorted it out himself in the first corner, didn't he," said Rosberg Sr.

"But maybe they will start educating him one day?

"He is a very talented guy, but he needs a little bit of guidance.

"He is throwing away great results all the time, and F1 is all about results."

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner admitted that Verstappen can still improve.

But he stressed that the 19-year-old, who finished fifth in the world championship, is showing maturity.

"Any sportsman can improve in all areas," said Horner. "He is gaining experience all the time.

"He drove a very mature race and the way he looked after both the super-soft and the soft tyre was very mature.

"As he gains that experience, it will stand him in better stead for the coming years.

"There are always areas that you can improve and it is working on those marginal returns.

Verstappen described what happened as a racing incident and exonerated Hulkenberg from all blame.

"It was a bit of a racing incident, I don't blame Nico at all," said Verstappen.

"I think he just couldn't really see me with the mirrors, so I tried everything to avoid him but it didn't work so I spun, but I don't blame him.

"From there onwards, to find my way back actually I enjoyed it very much."