Ralf is a bad loser, says Rubens

Barrichello and Schumacher Jr tangled in the middle of the Suzuka race when Ralf attempted to overtake his Ferrari rival into the final chicane. Rubens also battled with Montoya earlier in the race and compared racing with both - the Colombian came out on top.

"It's much nicer to fight against Montoya than Ralf," said Barrichello. "I think Ralf hasn't been honest, so it's just a shame. I just think he's a bad loser, that's all."

Schumacher attempted to take third place from Barrichello, outbraked himself and went straight on, but rejoined ahead and bagged a stop-go penalty for his trouble.

But it didn't end there as Schumacher came in for his penalty at the same time as Barrichello's second stop. The German found himself behind the Ferrari on the way back onto the track, but muscled his way past immediately the cars crossed the speed limiter line.

"I was already much more in front by the time he turned in," said Barrichello of Schumacher's move at the chicane. "I would say he had to respect that. By the time that he saw he couldn't turn, he came off the brakes and went straight. And that's where I thought it was a bit unfair. I was expecting it, [Ralf to move over] yes. For sure he was holding his position."

Despite Barrichello's efforts, he was unable to wrench second place in the drivers' championship from McLaren rival David Coulthard. He had to settle for third in the standings after winding up fifth in Japan due to an electrical problem causing his engine to die during his second stop.

For full Barrichello Q&A, click here.