• Italian Grand Prix
Comments: 55

Button unimpressed by Schumacher's tactics

ESPNF1 Staff
September 12, 2011 « Fernandes wants Chandhok in India | »
Jenson Button passed both Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher in one lap © Sutton Images
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Jenson Button has described Michael Schumacher's defence of his position from Lewis Hamilton at the Italian Grand Prix as not "that bright".

Schumacher and Hamilton became embroiled in a 16-lap battle for position which Button watched from behind before passing both cars in a single lap. Such was the ferocity of the battle between Schumacher and Hamilton that Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn had to remind his driver to "leave room for the car behind when you change direction".

Hamilton refused to criticise Schumacher's tactics - which were reminiscent of some of the moves he pulled in his prime - but Button was not impressed.

"I thought he was moving quite a bit with Lewis," the Times quoted him as saying. "I had such a good run on him [Schumacher] and came on him so fast that he couldn't move a lot. It would have been very dangerous. But with Lewis he was moving across to the left and then to the right, which I don't think was all that bright. He always went to the right, then left and back to the right - not exactly what we agree is right. One move. Maybe he has just lost his memory."

However, Brawn believes it was Schumacher back at his best.

"He settled into a really tough battle with the McLarens, particularly Lewis, which was great racing and vintage Michael," Brawn said. "We haven't quite got a car that's quick enough yet but we are all pleased with Michael's fifth place."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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