Ralf: no regrets over tyre gamble

The Toyota driver was charging through the field after a first corner spin but crashed out at the final corner when he lost control on the damp track surface.

"That was a tough, disappointing race," said Schumacher, who is leaving the Toyota team after the Brazilian Grand Prix. "Our start was okay but I spun on the first lap while trying to avoid a collision with another car.

"After that we were able to make up good ground and I passed a lot of cars. It was a pity that Liuzzi hit me but I'm sure it was not on purpose.

"At that point the track was drying so we took the risk to switch to dry tyres because we didn't have much to lose. But then the quick shower arrived, I lost grip and the engine died.

"It was an enjoyable race but it's too bad we don't have a result. I only have one race left for Toyota but I will head to Brazil seeking to score as many points as possible to end my time here on a high note."

Teammate Jarno Trulli had little better fortune, coming home 13th after a weekend when he struggled with the handling of his car.

"This weekend has been a real struggle for me," said the Italian. "Yesterday I had problems with the balance of my car and today's race was always going to be a challenge as a result.

"Still, we made a good start and I was making good ground on the wet tyres given the conditions. But after the pit stop we lost a few places. It was a difficult race for everyone and it just didn't work out for me. I gave my best and pushed hard but it was not possible to score points. Now we head to the last race in Brazil and we will hope for a better result there."