Formula One news

Schumacher happy for Button and Brawn

Michael Schumacher has expressed his happiness for a victorious Jenson Button and his Brawn GP team after the Englishman picked up the 2009 World Championship in São Paulo on Sunday. The German, seven times a World Champion, is also delighted for Ross Brawn, who took guided him to titles at Benetton and Ferrari.

Jenson Button celebrates his first title win at Interlagos

When asked who has won the most Formula One World Championships this decade, few would reply 'Ross Brawn' although the Englishman, who took a sabbatical in 2007 before joining Honda, helped carry Schumacher and Ferrari to glory between 2000 and 2004 and has now picked up two more titles, making 12 in total.

A usually unemotional Ross Brawn struggled to hold back the tears of joy on Sunday

"Well, the fight for the World Championship titles is over already, one race prior to the finale," Schumacher wrote on his website. "As a fan of F1 I would have wished for a decision at the last race obviously, but on the other side I know from my own experience that, when being involved, you have a different view on that.

"Congratulations to Jenson and Ross and the whole team - what they managed to achieve this year has my full respect. I grant them the titles because, if you only look at what they have been through, you realise what an incredible story this is; just one year ago they did think everything was over. I am extremely happy for Ross, who I have known for such a long time now - he deserves this success."

Schumacher's personal favourite for the title, however, was his compatriot. "What a pity obviously for Sebastian (Vettel), but he still has a lot of time," Michael continued. "He has had a fantastic season and showed that he has everything to become World Champion - he must not forget that with all the disappointment now.

"Of course, he will see that differently at the moment and will need some days to digest this weekend, but I am sure we will see and hear a lot of good stuff from him in the future."

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