Nico Rosberg says the second half of 2016 feels like a "clean slate" as he looks to end Lewis Hamilton's momentum with a win at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Rosberg's 43-point title lead going into the Spanish Grand Prix turned into a 19-point deficit by Germany, with Hamilton going into the summer break with six wins from seven races. Despite the dramatic momentum swing ahead of the mid-way point Rosberg insists he feels better than ever heading to Spa-Francorchamps.
"It's been great to have a couple of weeks with the family to relax and recharge the batteries," Rosberg said. "I've loved every minute -- but now it's time to get back to work! For me, it's like a clean slate at this stage. What's happened so far this season is in the past.
Rosberg has never won a Belgian Grand Prix and he thinks the iconic Ardennes circuit is the perfect place to revive his stuttering championship campaign.
"I can't wait to get in that car, put my foot down and get everything I can from these next races. Belgium is a great place to kick start the year after the break. It's such an awesome track, with so many challenges and usually some crazy weather just to mix things up even more. If you ask any driver they will tell you how much they love racing here.
"And, if you look back through the years, there have been some great moments too - that mega move from Mika Häkkinen on Michael Schumacher down the Kemmel straight, for example. All of that history just makes it even more special, so I'd love to add my name to the winner's list. I'm feeling strong in myself, I know I'll have the best car out there and I'm massively pumped to be back on track, so let's see how it goes."