Rosberg: Renault "could cause a surprise" with new rule changes

Nico Rosberg thinks Renault could cause a surprise in the 2019 season, as the German argues the French team could have closed the gap with the big three teams with the new regulations.

Renault made big waves for the upcoming season by signing Daniel Ricciardo onto their team, luring him away from Red Bull Racing. The Aussie, 29, will team up with Nico Hülkenberg as the team hopes to build on their 'best of the rest' season in 2018.

Rosberg doesn't fancy Renault to close the gap just yet, although he doesn't rule out a surprise either.

"For Ricciardo and Renault, I unfortunately don't see that car being good enough to fight for podiums just yet," the 2016 champion told Marca.

"It will be good, but a little less exciting, although, you know what? The gains could be surprising with the new rules, you never know."

The new regulations include a way less complex front wing where there is very little room for innovation, and a system which makes DRS more effective.