Due to TBK destroying the Bottas thread. I've decided to start a couple of other threads that focus on the topics that pollute the Bottas through TBK's insecurities.

2016 was a highly contentious season with numerous controversial points of interests.

What do you remember about the 2016 season?

I remember the Belgian GP particularly. It was because Hamilton completely exploited the engine allocation rules by bringing in 2 extra turbos and MGH-Us. Then breaking the seal on the gearbox so a new gearbox could be used for the next race.

As the championship leader at this point (Leading Rosberg by 19), this was obviously an act of favouritism by MB. By introducing these new parts, Hamilton was effectively equipped with a fresh car for the remaining 1/3 of the season. While Rosberg was still using what he was allocated from the start of the year.

To emphasise how advantageous these new part were. In the 12 races prior to Belgium, Hamilton led Rosberg in the PP stats, 6-5. This is a sign of equality as Rosberg also qualified ahead of Hamilton in the one race MB didn't get pole, thanks to a stunning performance by Daniel Ricciardo (Another one for Ricciardo, a performance yet to be equalled by Verstappen).

But then after Belgium (When it had been equal), the PP stats blew out in favour of Hamilton 6-2! A huge advantage in the context of the championship. He gets to start ahead of Rosberg, and what would also be typically the favoured side, with a rejuvenated car. In a season like 16, track position early in the race counted for a lot in who ended up winning.

In hindsight, the story of 2016 tells us that this "legalised cheating" of Hamilton backfired. On his way to an easy, unremarkable win in Malaysia, with Rosberg dealing with the adversity of being punted off in the first corner, Hamilton's engine (with its fresher components) blew up. Much to the dismay of his fans whose self esteem is dictated why the results he gets.

In light of all the favouritism Hamilton had, Rosberg was a worthy 2016 champion.