SHANGHAI, April 17, 2011 (AFP) - Nico Rosberg said he was disappointed not to finish on the podium after a strong performance for the improving Mercedes team in Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old German, son of world champion Keke Rosberg, led the race for several laps but was unable to stay in contention as he nursed his car home in fifth place with a low fuel load.
"Naturally I'm disappointed with the race as we know that we didn't make the most of our opportunity out there," he said.
Rosberg said Mercedes had made big strides with the car but fuel consumption problems made it hard for him to fight for position.
"We could have had a podium finish or maybe more today, but we will learn from this together as a team and make sure that we get the results next time."
The team completed its first double points finish of the season as seven-time world champion German Michael Schumacher, 42, was eighth.
"We have made a big step forward with our car and it worked very well. We are heading towards the first race in Europe now and will bring some upgrades to Istanbul which should help us to improve even more," the veteran said.
"It is good to leave Asia with a positive feeling."
