Rosberg rues error, safety car timing

The Williams driver was fighting for the lead with Lewis Hamilton until his first pitstop, when he overshot the pit exit and crossed over the white line, a mistake that cost him a drive-through penalty.

He then had to serve the penalty when the safety car was on track, which meant he dropped down to the bottom of the field.

From there, Rosberg managed to climb up 11th place.

"Today's outcome was hugely disappointing," said Rosberg. "I made an unnecessary mistake by braking too late and running over the white line on the pitlane exit. Then the safety car came out at the worst possible moment.

"It left me with a really horrible feeling, also for the team, knowing that I wouldn't be second when I have served my drive-through penalty and I would have to spend the rest of the race at the back.

"The team gave me such a good car this weekend having put more effort into development than anyone else, and I am now determined to use this to best advantage in Japan."

Team-mate Kazuki Nakajima also had a difficult day on his way to ninth position.

"It was a difficult race and I think I did the best job I could, but it was disappointing not to be able to claim any points," he said.

"There seemed to be a possibility in the last stint as the car in front of me was struggling with its tyres but as much as focus on the car ahead, I also had to defend from behind, so it was tough to find the balance.

"The car has been good here and hopefully we can carry this with us to Japan."