Downbeat Brawn 'not giving up'

The German's retirement has all but secured title rival Fernando Alonso will retain his championship crown in two weeks at the season finale, as the Spaniard holds a ten-point lead over Schumacher.

And with both Renault drivers on the podium, the French team now hold a nine-point advantage over Ferrari in the constructors' championship.

"Obviously we're very disappointed," a dejected looking Brawn told reporters as soon as the Suzuka race ended.

"Michael had his situation under control, but then Felipe [Massa] suffered from a rear tyre puncture, and then this engine failure... Things just didn't quite work out today.

"But we're in this position now for all sorts of reasons. We didn't have a great start to the season, then Fernando [Alonso] lost his engine in Monza, etc. So it's a combination of things."

However Brawn emphasized that the battle is not over just yet. "It's a long shot, but we're definitely not giving up," he said.