Montezemolo unhappy at stewards verdict

Backing claims from Ferrari sporting director Jean Todt, di Montezemolo said that Schumacher was punished despite there being no certainty that his actions were deliberate.

The Italian was especially unhappy with the stewards' decision possibly playing a decisive role in the outcome of the world championship. Schumacher's title rival Fernando Alonso managed to extend his lead to 21 points after claiming victory at Monaco.

"At Ferrari, we never argue with judges' decisions, much less when we don't agree with them," di Montezemolo told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Regardless of the kind of justice - sporting or otherwise - I don't like a guilty verdict based on presumptions. I especially don't like the fact that with such a verdict you can heavily influence the outcome of the world championship."

Di Montezemolo added that the only positive he will take from the Monaco Grand Prix weekend is that Ferrari's 248 F1 proved so competitive in the race - allowing Schumacher to grab fifth place at the finish despite starting from the pitlane.

"Schumacher has honoured the role of great champion," explained di Montezemolo. "I think that was the best reply by Ferrari in sporting and technical terms.

"On Saturday and Sunday, ours was by far the fastest car, so we must not give up. It's imperative to carry on working, and I think the result at Monaco is the best demonstration of our potential."