Schumacher praises Irvine's winning effort

The German, who is recuperating from the broken leg he suffered during the British Grand Prix two weeks ago, told German reporters that the championship is up for grabs.

'Eddie did a great job. The world championship is wide open,' said Schumacher.

'Eddie drove a very clean race and especially kept his nerve at the end when [David] Coulthard increased the pressure.'

Schumacher also heaped praise on Ferrari race strategist Ross Brawn, who was asked to collect the winning constructors' trophy by team boss Jean Todt.

'I also have to give a great compliment to the team which once again chose the right race strategy.'

Schumacher, who was talking to the press from his Swiss home, admitted he was frustrated at having to watch the race on television.

'I am upset that I was not able to race. It would have been an important race for me as well.'