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New tyre framework could boost F1, Mercedes' Rosberg believes

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg believes the new tyre selection regulations for the 2016 Formula 1 season could have a surprising impact on the action

Of the 13 sets allocated to each driver per weekend, two are chosen by supplier Pirelli and the remaining 10 are selected by the driver from three available compounds.

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A variety of combinations have been declared for next weekend's Australian Grand Prix, with Rosberg and team-mate Lewis Hamilton notably making different choices.

McLaren's Jenson Button has said the new rules will make little difference because the teams will ultimately converge on the same options.

But Rosberg said: "The tyres might have a bigger impact than we now predict.

"There's three tyres we can use now and people can gamble a little bit more and that will increase the variability and variability is good in that sense.

"That could also increase the excitement thanks to Pirelli."

F1 has come in for a lot of criticism of late, with Hamilton suggesting it was broken.

Rosberg was more positive but admitted there are improvements that can be made.

"I am a big fan of the sport and I think the sport is awesome," he said.

"I don't disagree that there are some things that can be done better, of course.

"We need to keep questioning it and keep pushing forward and making the sport even more fun for everybody at home watching us.

"Also this year, Ferrari is very close, so for sure that will make it more exciting."

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