Michael Relieved Ralf is Fine

Michael Schumacher said he was concerned for the welfare of brother Ralf during the early stages of the United States Grand Prix before going on to claim his eighth victory of the season at Indianapolis.

The Ferrari driver was leading the race when Williams' Ralf ploughed into the wall at the final turn at high-speed behind him, and Schumacher came across the wrecked car as he completed his lap.

He was concerned for his younger brother, who remained in the car as the race was run behind the safety car with the field passing him, despite being given reassurances from his Ferrari team over the radio.

"The biggest concern I had was seeing Ralf sitting for so long in the car," Schumacher said. "As soon as I saw and I was aware that (Juan Pablo) Montoya was in position whatever and there was a safety car and so on and I saw a (Williams) BMW parked there.

"The worst thing was seeing him for so long there. They kept telling me that they were informed that things weren't too bad, everything was looking alright. But still, I mean, I have heard this many times in the past and it turned out differently but as far as my information is concerned Ralf is well and that is all that matters."

Ralf Schumacher was taken to hospital during the race suffering from concussion, but miraculously escaped any serious injury. Schumacher led home teammate Rubens Barrichello to a Ferrari one-two.