Rosberg expects another step forward at Monza

Nico Rosberg finished sixth after a brilliant start
 in Belgium © Getty Images

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Nico Rosberg believes Mercedes will take another step forward at the Italian Grand Prix following its best result of the season at Spa-Francorchamps last weekend.

Rosberg finished sixth behind team-mate Michael Schumacher in Belgium, securing a haul of 18-points, and is confident the car can be even more competitive at Monza.

"I'm really looking forward to the weekend in Monza," he said. "We learned at the last race in Spa that our car can be competitive at high-speed tracks, and we definitely took a step forward there. I am confident that we can do that again in Italy next weekend. I visited the factory this week and I'm quite happy with how things are working out there."

Schumacher said his fifth place in Belgium had provided a motivational boost for the team.

"The final European race takes place at Monza, a truly historic Formula One circuit, and one where I have always been so warmly welcomed and supported over the years," he said. "We achieved a good team result in Spa last weekend, and I especially enjoyed the overtaking battles and the challenge of making up so many places during the race. This gives us a boost going into the final part of the season, and we will continue pushing hard to get the best possible results."

Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn also confirmed that Mercedes would have a Monza-specific low-drag aero package.

"Coming off the back of our best result of the season in Spa, we are looking forward to the weekend and to finishing the European season on a high," he said. "With the emphasis jointly on engine power and aerodynamic efficiency, we have the benefit of our Mercedes-Benz engine and, as always for Monza, we will run a special low-downforce aerodynamic package to minimise drag on the long straights."

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