Todt Criticises F1 Media

Ferrari's chief Jean Todt has gone on the attack against parts of the Formula One media who help spread unsubstatiated rumours against his team yesterday.

Some websites and TV commentators - among them ITV's James Allen - reported that rumours at the Nurburgring paddock suggest the Ferrari may be running illegally, qualifying on tyres of one compound and then switching to another compound during the race.

But Todt said this was irresponsible reporting. "There are times when I wish I could change jobs," Todt said yesterday, visibly upset. "This is what I would like to do when I hear of journalists spreading rumours that Michael [Schumacher] used different compounds. It is frustrating and pathetic, some journalists should be ashamed."

Todt also lashed out at the media for breaking into cheers in the media centre of Monaco ten days ago, when Schumacher emerged from the tunnel during the race with his car damaged and on three wheels.

"I'm glad that this track has no tunnel, so none of you could cheer again at the sight of

Michael coming out on three wheels," Todt told reporters.

"Michael does some outstanding work and must be respected for what he does. He who takes joy in another's misfortunes is simply a cretin," the Frenchman added.