Former racing driver Nico Rosberg (37) takes a break from "The Lion's Den". The ex-Formula 1 star has now announced this via Instagram. The reason: "I really want to fully concentrate on the many national and international start-ups in which we are already invested."

There is currently a lot of new things in the pipeline, and he also wants to focus on his newly founded non-profit organization. He also thanks the "DHDL" community in his video. "It is and remains a great format and the challenge in the cave was really great fun." He met many inspiring founders. "Thanks also to you lions. We were really a great pack." On a personal level, he appreciates everyone and is impressed by their skills. Rosberg also thanks the production team.

A VOX spokeswoman said: "We thank Nico Rosberg for five great seasons of 'Die Höhle der Löwen' and wish him every success in his upcoming projects." She also leaves open a return. "And who knows: once a lion, always a lion - maybe he'll join the lion pack again in one of the following seasons."

Ralf Dümmel (56), Judith Williams (51), Carsten Maschmeyer (63), Dagmar Wöhrl (68) and Co. have to do without the former racing driver for the time being. Two lions have already reacted to Rosberg's break. "Thank you for enriching the pack of lions so much. Just a super inspiring time with you," writes Dümmel in the comments. "It's a pity that you are no longer in our pride of lions. Thanks for the great time!" Maschmeyer thinks.

In the spring of 2023, the 13th season "Die Höhle der Löwen" is scheduled to start on VOX.