Michael admits Ferrari must work on consumption

The world champion finished second to his brother Ralf, but increased his lead in the Formula 1 World Championship. With title rival David Coulthard retiring with a blown engine in his McLaren-Mercedes 15 laps from the flag, Schumacher has increased his lead to 18 points.

Asked what Ferari was doing about consumption problem, Schumacher said: "We are working on this - we don't know what will be the answer."

But he said he had no regrets about losing to his brother.

"If I am going to lose to anyone, he is the best person to lose to," he said. "Our mum and dad will be very proud of us today. It is the first time we have been first and second on the podium.

"I got six important points, he got his second win of his career, a happy family day

"I have no problem with him winning. If he is faster, he is faster. We have to work harder on our car."

Schumacher said he was not worried that his brother would make an ill-judged lunge for the lead and send them both crashing out of the race.

"He is very experienced and I knew he wouldn't make a mistake," he said. "He could go longer. We were the best Bridgestone team today, but the Michelins were a bit better.

"Williams have a good car and a good driver and when the package is right they can beat us, and they did.

"Initially I pushed hard to make up the gap out of the pits, but normally that doesn't work and it didn't, but you have to try. Once I saw him coming out of the pits in front of me and pulling out a margin there was only one strategy: drive safely and take six points."

Schumacher Jr could not get past him on the track, but a string of quick laps when the Ferrari pitted gave him enough of an advantage to come out in front

The German was beaten for the second time this year by his little brother as the Michelin tyres, BMW engine and Williams chassis proved an irresistible combination.

Michael Schumacher has 58 points, Coulthard 40, Barrichello 24 and Ralf 22.