Rosberg ready to re-think future after '09

The German was hoping for big things in 2008 following a strong winter testing and a podium in the first race of the season in Australia.

But the year turned out to be a disappointment as Williams failed to match the development rate of their rivals.

In the end, Rosberg scored 17 points and finished down in 13th position in the championship.

And although the 23-year-old admits he doesn't regret staying with Williams, he says he will re-think his position should Williams fail to deliver next year.

"No, not yet," Rosberg told the official Formula One website when asked if he regretted staying at Williams. "Anyway, I was to stay with Williams, whatever happened this year - that was done.

"And next year the cars are going to be completely spread out again because everybody starts from zero - so I will tell you halfway through next year if I regret it or not.

"It would be fantastic if the team could change their course. All these years you just build on the car that you had the year before, copy other people, and try to improve more than others - but now it's a different game because everybody starts from zero, with a completely new concept.

"And I hope that the people at Williams can take advantage of this situation. That would be great. I am not asking for a world championship-winning car, just a car that gives me the opportunity to finish in the points consistently - and a couple of podiums would be the icing on the cake.

"The chances are there, for sure. Should '09 not turn out as I hope it will, then naturally I have to re-think my position for 2010."

Rosberg insisted, however, that he has not lost faith in Williams.

"Definitely not. And I also haven't given up on the team, not at all. I am still very motivated and it would be the greatest for me if I could help this team to some good success," he added.

"Going back to the 'glory days' will be a bit difficult in the situation nowadays, but still to have some good success would be a very nice thing for me."

The former GP2 champion is also adamant that, despite the lack of results, he is in the best shape of his career.

"I am a better driver now than I have ever been. I believe in myself and I am convinced that I have what it takes to get to the very top. It just seems I have to be a bit patient."