Former seven time world champion Michael Schumacher has congratulated new 2009 champion Jenson Button after he secured his maiden world championship crown at the recent Brazilian Grand Prix. While Michael would have preferred to see the championship go down to the wire, he is full of admiration for everything the Brawn team has achieved in just their first official year of racing.

“Well, the fight for the world championship titles is over already one race prior to the finale. As a fan of F1 I would have wished for a decision at the last race obviously, but on the other side I know from my own experience that being involved you have a different view on that,” he said on his official website.

“Congratulations to Jenson and Ross and the whole team - what they managed to achieve this year has my full respect. I grant them the titles because if you only look at what they have been through you realize what an incredible story this is: just one year ago they did think everything is over. I am extremely happy for Ross who I know since such a long time now, he deserves this success.”

Michael was hoping that fellow countryman Sebastian Vettel would come from behind and take the crown, however, he knows that the young Red Bull racer still has a lot time to get the job done...

“What a pity obviously for Sebastian, but he still has a lot of time. He had a fantastic season and showed that he has everything to become world champion. He must not forget that with all the disappointment now. Of course he will see that differently at the moment and will need some days to digest this weekend. But I am sure we will see and hear a lot of good stuff from him in the future."