Despite the furore that has continued ever since Michael Schumacher stopped at Rascasse at 14:59 on Saturday May 27, several of the drivers most affected by his actions opted not to attend a meeting of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) today, at which the German was to be asked to explain his actions.

Kimi Raikkonen, Mark Webber, Fernando Alonso, Juan Pablo Montoya, Heikki Kovalainen, Franck Montagny and Anthony Davidson all stayed away as their colleagues listened to the German's side of things.

Speaking after the meeting, GPDA director David Coulthard told reporters; "It was a good meeting, and we are still represented by the three main directors," confirming that contrary to speculation in some areas that the Schumacher would be asked to stand down as president.

"There was a bit of tension to start with," the Scot admitted, "but it has all been cleared up. Everyone has their opinion of what happened in Monaco and it was good to clear the air after the last two weeks. Everyone is unanimous in that we are together and that we want to move forward, and Michael is a major player in that."

Some drivers have been far more vocal than others in recent weeks, with Schumacher's former championship rival Jacques Villeneuve openly calling for the German to be 'sacked' as president, referring to the seven-time champion as a prat.

Before the meeting Schumacher made it clear that he had done all the apologising he was going to do, and had no intention of begging forgiveness.

Despite today's amicable result, Schumacher's colleagues could still have their way later in the year when it comes to re-elections for the GPDA directorships.

"As per last year, Turkey will be a point where we nominate whether the three directors continue or whether we change," said Coulthard. "Personally, I think it is good to see change because then the reactive role of the GPDA keeps getting moved along."