Michael Schumacher was visibly annoyed at today's Mercedes livery launch when a reporter questioned his racing ethics and sportsmanship.

No sooner had the seven-time champion announced his comeback than message boards and forums were groaning under the weight of the usual suspects denouncing the legendary racer and suggesting that morally he is almost on a par with Osama bin Laden and Hitler and responsible for just about all the world's ills.

He has his detractors in the media also, particularly the British contingent, therefore it should have not come a surprise today when a journo opted to use the livery launch to dredge up the past and question the German's sportsmanship.

Asked if, this time around, he would win races in the "right way", Schumacher paused briefly before responding: "Ninety-one victories, seven titles, you win only in a bad way. Absolutely. Yeah, you're right, I need to prove myself now."

However, when the reporter followed up by saying that it was not about what he had won but how he had won Schumacher hit back: "Yeah, I know. I did win all this in the manner in which you are trying to ask questions."

After another brief pause, he continued: "Let's be sensible and think about the reality, and look forward to what we might all face, learn and enjoy together. That's what I'm looking for."

Around the world the usual suspects prepared for a long hard season on their forums and message boards of choice.