Team bosses praised Michael and Ralf Schumacher for their courage after racing at Imola on Sunday after hearing that their mother had passed away.
Team bosses praised Michael and Ralf Schumacher for their courage after racing at Imola after hearing that their mother had died.
Elisabeth Schumacher died in a Cologne hospital early on Sunday following a fall at her home last week. The brothers had flown to Cologne on Saturday after qualifying to be with their mother after she slipped into a coma. They returned to Imola for the race with Michael winning the race.
“It was very difficult for Michael today, but he did his job and to do it like that was just fantastic,” said Ferrari sporting director Jean Todt who stood in for the driver at the post-race press conference. “I think the way he drove today shows just what he is as a man and that was very important.”
“We said it was his decision and what ever he decided we told him we would support him,” said Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn. “He has given us a tremendous boost in very difficult circumstances. What he did today was exemplary. The timing of the win was crucial after we had such a difficult start to the season.”
Mercedes motorsport director Norbert Haug offered his sympathies to the Schumachers. “I feel terribly sorry for the Schumacher brothers,” he said. “But they showed everyone their greatness today when, of all people, those two had such a great fight at the start. They’re great boys.”