31/05/2006
NEWS STORY
Michael Schumacher's manager, Willi Weber, has hit out at Monaco race steward, Joaquin Verdegay, accusing him of being biased in favour of fellow-Spaniard Fernando Alonso.
"This gentleman is a Spaniard, just like Alonso," said Weber in an interview with Bild. "It was therefore not a good idea to let him be a judge in this matter.
"Would you let a wolf make a judgement against Red Riding-Hood?" he added.
Verdegay, vice-president of the Spanish Motorsport Association, had previously revealed how he and his fellow stewards had reached their decision on Saturday evening.
"We don't know if the manoeuvre was deliberate," the Spaniard told Gazzetta dello Sport, "but at that particular place he had certainly not done anything like it throughout the weekend. He braked 50 percent harder than on any of his previous laps.
"He then performed some unnecessary and pathetic counter-steering that lasted five metres until there was no more chance of going through the turn," he continued. "He lost control of the car while travelling at 10 mph (16 kph). The engine shut off because he wanted it to, losing enough time before hitting the clutch. His excuse that he did not engage reverse because there was traffic does not make sense."
However...
"If you make a mistake and lose control of your car, then of course you brake more," said Weber. "Anyone who drives a normal road car knows that. None of the stewards sat in that car... only Michael. This supposed 'proof' is ridiculous."
Weber took the opportunity to hit out at those within the paddock who were quick to attack, and some of the comments they made.
"The comments from Keke Rosberg were typical of the criticism aimed at Michael," said Weber, referring to the former World Champion, who pulled no punches when accusing Schumacher of cheating. "I do not understand what the problem is, but clearly there are some in F1 who get very emotional. However, before forming opinions, and pointing the finger, one should take a good look at oneself.”
The German also dismissed claims that Schumacher is preparing to apologise to fellow members of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association.
"Apologise? For what?" said the German. "Michael has the greatest respect for his colleagues, but what they might demand and what Michael does are two separate things.
"Monaco will soon be forgotten," he added, "especially if he wins the next Grand Prix at Silverstone."