Ross Brawn hails Michael Schumacher as 'driver of the century'

F1 ace Michael Schumacher has reportedly been hailed as the 'driver of the century' by Mercedes boss Ross Brawn.

After the German announced his second retirement from Formula One, Brawn said Schuey should be remembered not only for his seven world championships with Benetton and Ferrari, but also for his contribution to Mercedes.

"I think he is the greatest racing driver of this century. I was very privileged to work with Michael from the very beginning and obviously we had some fantastic times. Tough times, too, but also very successful times," The Sun quoted Brawn, as saying.

"We have not achieved what we wanted to achieve together and that is frustrating, but Michael will have made a contribution to what we achieve in the future. So for me, personally, he is the greatest racing driver of this century," he added.

Brawn revealed Mercedes and Schumacher did discuss the possibility of him continuing to drive. But the team needed a long-term commitment, which it seems Schuey was unable to offer at a time when Lewis Hamilton bounced on to the market.

"It evolved as a mutual decision that suited everyone. The important thing for the team is that someone of the calibre of Lewis does not become available every day. That was an important factor," he said.

Schumacher has delivered only one podium for Merc in his three years with the team, but Brawn, who worked alongside the F1 star during the glory years at Ferrari, insisted that the ex-champ should never be underestimated.