Schumacher Praises Ferrari Team

Michael Schumacher dedicated his seventh world title to the entire Ferrari team on Sunday after hailing the role they have played in his domination of Formula One.

A second place behind McLaren's Kimi Raikkonen in Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix was enough to wrap up a seventh World Championship, and a fifth in succession, for the German.

He enjoys a tight relationship with the Ferrari 'Dream Team', set up around him and including team chief Jean Todt, technical director Ross Brawn and chief designer Rory Byrne.

But on Sunday he praised the entire team, rather than the key figures, sparking champagne celebrations after securing the title in Ferrari's 700th Grand Prix and at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit where he made his debut in 1991.

"It's very special," said Schumacher, who now has a 40-point lead over teammate Rubens Barrichello.

"I don't think it is necessary to dedicate things because there is so many people who are responsible for this success," the German added. "We are here in Spa, which does mean a lot to me, and to clinch the seventh title at the 700th Grand Prix for Ferrari is something very special.

"I'm just very proud to have achieved this together with the team, which I think is extraordinary. They are so great."

Ferrari won the constructors' title at the last race in Hungary two weeks ago.

Schumacher first joined Ferrari in 1996, having already won the title in 1994 and 1995 with Benetton, but was forced to wait until 2000 for another drivers' title. He has made it his own since, but refused to compare each of his successes.

"As I said before none of the championships feel the same. "I mean I accept being happy and knowing what I have achieved."