Brawn Praises 'Exemplary' Schumacher

Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn praised World Champion Michael Schumacher for overcoming the death of his mother to put in an "exemplary" drive at Imola today.

Brawn revealed that Schumacher had the option not to take part after hearing of the death of his mother in the early hours of Sunday morning prior to the San Marino Grand Prix. But the Englishman admitted Schumacher's decision to race, and his ultimate emotional victory, gave the whole Ferrari team renewed confidence after a poor start to the season.

"It was his decision and there was nothing we could do but support him," said Brawn. "We didn't discuss it. He made his decision and gave the team a tremendous boost today in very difficult circumstances.

"It is exemplary. He has given the team a lift and it was crucial timing-wise. We have had such a difficult start to the season and to do what he has done today has been a huge boost."

Ferrari had dropped behind the leading pack after scoring just 16 points in the first three races, with Schumacher and teammate Rubens Barrichello equal on eight points each. But the sterling performance of the Teutonic German champion, and the ten points that come with his victory, have put the Italian team back on the map and sent the old F2002 car out with a victory bow.

Ferrari plan to introduce their new F2003-GA car at the next race, in Spain, and Brawn added: "We can go on with a lot more confidence and I hope it builds from here. We don't want a repeat of the first three races."