Schumi's reign has come to an end

Outgoing World Champion Michael Schumacher handed his crown over to Fernando Alonso. Schumi won his first two of seven world titles with the Benneton team, before it was bought by Renault and the German has good memories of his time there.

Michael Schumacher "I very much would like to congratulate them. They have done a very good job over the whole season, Fernando and the guys around him. I have just met one of the mechanics (Jonathan Wheatley) from my time there. He is now the chief mechanic, and he was close to tears. It is really touching to see them after they have had to wait ten years to again win the championship. It was really nice and I am happy for them. They have done a good job. The time when I was thinking about the title is over already because it was some weeks ago."

Schumi said that, although he won the last five titles, he feels no envy seeing a Alonso getting the championship-winning celebrations. But next year, Schumi wants to be the one to be celebrating.
"It was so clear it would happen maybe now or the next race. I am not sad, it is more that I look forward to next year and try to fight again - and hopefully I will be able to do so. From a personal point of view it is nice for me to see some of the guys I worked with at Benetton looking so happy. I look forward to fighting with them again next season."