Schumacher Praises McLaren after 'Deserved' Win

World Champion Michael Schumacher conceded McLaren rival David Coulthard scored a deserved win at Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix, where the Scot put his team back in business with their first victory of the Formula One season.

Ferrari's four times World Champion Schumacher, making his 100th start for the historic Italian team in search of their 150th victory after four wins in succession, had to settle for second best.

But the German, engaged in a real battle after his 'team orders' win at the Austrian GP two weeks ago sparked a worldwide outcry, still stretched his lead in the Championship to a hefty 33 points.

"They (McLaren) did a great job and they really deserved this win today," said Schumacher. "I kept on pushing because in Monaco nothing is for certain and you have to go until the last lap, last corner.

"I was trying to get my opportunity but (Coulthard) drove a fine race and didn't give me any chance."

It was the first time that Ferrari's F2002 car, introduced after the start of the season, had been beaten and Coulthard put paid to Schumacher's hopes of a record-equalling sixth Monaco win in style.