Stewart gives Barrichello his backing

Barrichello drove for Stewart Grand Prix for three seasons, and the Scot is adamant that the Prancing Horse could do no better than the diminutive Brazilian, despite recent criticism to the contrary. Barrichello is currently third in the points standings, despite a number of on-track collisions which have marred his season thus far.

"I don't think he should be given any criticism," Stewart told MN. "The guy is a very talented racing driver - certainly one of the top six drivers in the world.

"I don't know what problems he's been having so far this year, but I don't see anyone better for Ferrari, to be honest."

Ferrari is understood to be monitoring the progress of Finnish wonderkid Kimi Raikkonen as a possible long-term replacement but, for the moment at least, has backed its number two driver.

"Barrichello's performance this year has been excellent," said sporting director Jean Todt. "Ferrari is happy with its drivers at the moment, and we're not talking to anybody."